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Years ago, many Advent-
ists were farmers. Some
still are. But the majority of
us today are involved in
fields far-removed from
tilling the soil.
The idea of a Sabbath
School Investment pro-
ject may still bring to
mind an acre of wheat
specifically set aside for
God's unique blessing.
Maybe that's why many
of us are not yet involved
in an investment project
If you've been missing
out on the unique, faith-
building adventure of a
partnership with God in
an investment project,
don't blame it on the fad
that you "don't own a
farm." God can bless a
project even if you live it
an apartment
Be creative. Think of a
special project this quar-
ter to raise funds for in-
vestment Children will
especially enjoy a family
project, be it gathering ti
cans, washing cars or
whatever better idea you
conceive. Investing with
God is an investment for
eternity.
ibraresst 'caftan Gad
Unlimited partnership opportunities still available.
4
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AUSTRALASIAN DIVISION OE
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THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
148 FOX VALLEY ROAD, WAHROONGA, N.S.W. 2076 • PHONE: 48 1061
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
• CABLES: "ADVENTIST" SYDNEY • TELEX: 22064
Dear Fellow Sabbath School Members,
No country within the territory of the Australasian Division
presents the Church with a greater challenge than does Papua New Guinea.
This land, so recently lifted from the stone—age into the late 20th
century is developing with tremendous momentum. This is also true of
the Seventh—day Adventist church in Papua New Guinea whose resources
are straining to maintain an ever developing medical, educational and
evangelistic programme.
Three special projects within the Papua New Guinea Union Mission
will benefit from the 13th Sabbath offering, first quarter, 1978. They
are:
1.
The replacement of mission aircraft which are so vital to
communication in a land of vast distances, high mountains
and inadequate roads and public transport services;
2.
A much needed classroom and administrative block at Sonoma
College, senior Adventist educational institution of the
Union, and;
3.
The erecting of a number of much needed evangelistic youth
centres in many of the fast—growing cities and towns of the
newly independent nation of Papua New Guinea.
Scattered throughout the mission lands of the South Pacific are
many useful monuments of Sabbath School members' sacrificial giving.
These were special 13th Sabbath projects of the past which are now
completed and performing an important function in the outreach of the church.
Papua New Guinea thanks you again in anticipation of an overflowing
offering this coming 13th Sabbath.
Yours very sincerely,
K. S. Parmenter
President
1—ASS L-1-78
PATRIARCHS AND PROPHETS
PROPHETS AND KINGS
THE DESIRE OF AGES
THE ACTSOF THE APOSTLES
Every day is a good day when you take time to read these books
while studying your Sabbath School lessons. Each volume has
a special message for every Sabbath School member. Make
sure your basic library contains:
The Conflict Set
(5 volumes)
The Testimonies
(9 volumes)
Early Writings
Selected Messages
(2 volumes)
Education
All titles available at your local Adventist Book Center;
or order through your church lay activities secretary.
Brought to you by Pacific Press
DAYBREAK M SERIES
Adult Sabbath School Lessons / No. 331, January-March, 1978
Contns
1. God the Creator
2. Creation
3. The Great Controversy
4. The Sabbath—A Memorial of Creation
5. Uniformity or Catastrophe?
6. Dangers to the Church
7. Trust in the Creator
8. The Creator and Re-creator
9.
The Creator's Last Call
10.
Creator and Life-giver
11.
The Creator and the Resurrection
12.
The Creator and the Restoration
The Adult Sabbath School Lessons are prepared by the Sabbath School Department
of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. The preparation of the lessons
is directed by a worldwide Sabbath School Lesson Committee, the members of which
serve as consulting editors.
Editorial Office: 6840 Eastern Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20012
Lesson Author: Harold G. Coffin
Editor: W. Richard Lesher
Editorial Secretary: Florence L. Wetmore
Circulation Manager: Arthur R. Mazat
Art and Design: Pacific Press
Cover Picture: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Scripture references other than from the King James Version quoted by permission in this quarterly are as
follows: '
NEB. From
The New English Bible,
copyright© by the Delegates of the Oxford University Press, and the Syndics
of the Cambridge University Press 1961 and 1970. Used by permission of Cambridge University Press, New York.
City.
RSV. From the
Revised Standard Version Bible,
copyright © 1946 (renewed © 1973), 1952 and © 1971, by the
Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and used by
permission.
Braille lessons available. See page 112.
Adult Sabbath School Lessons (regular edition). Single copy, 45 cents; four issues (1
year) $1.80 (60 cents and $2.40 to countries requiring extra postage). Published in the
U.S.A. by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of SDA), 1350 Villa
Street, Mountain View, California 94042. Second-class mail privileges authorized at
Mountain View, California. Form 3579 requested. When a chahge of address is
desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses.
Copyright 1977 by Pacific Press Publishing Association
BEFORE
all
else
fails,
read
the
instructions
So often we fail because we try to solve
our problems in our own way.
When we trust in God and study His
Word daily, we can be confident of
victory over the perplexities of this world
and have a home in the life to come.
GOD THE CREATOR
Introduction
The greatest demonstration of God's power is the creation of life in man and in all
living things. Although we cannot explain what life really is, we see its results, and all
who enjoy life dread the day when it will fade from the body and leave a lifeless
corpse.
People want to live. There is no greater victory that God can gain for man than the
victory over death. That is basic. Without it every other gift becomes meaningless.
God's gift of life must head any list of divine blessings. The Bible is, in a sense, the
story of God's efforts to gain for man victory over death and to give him everlasting
life.
God has no rival in His power to conquer death and to give eternal life to man, for He
is the Creator. No other god can justly make that claim.
Our Creator God formed the earth and created Adam out of the dust of the ground.
This same God came to this earth and was born a child. When wicked men took His
life, they could not keep Him in the tomb. By His inherent power the resurrection took
place.
In the near future God's power over death will be demonstrated again in the
resurrection and immortalization of the saints. Then those who have believed in
Jesus will experience the victory over death for which they have longed.
When this takes place, God's children will be able to look forward to an unending
life in Paradise. By this resurrection of believers, the purpose of God in creating the
world will at last be realized. We shall enjoy fellowship again with our Creator, and the
entire universe will throb with undiminished love for the Lord. The greatest gift that
can be given will have been bestowed upon the saints.
This quarter we shall study about the Lord as Creator and Life-giver. The lessons
will include the questions of time in the creation of the world, and of the relation of the
Flood to understanding data often interpreted as supporting evolution.
We live in a scientific age. Science dominates the thinking of many people. Some
scientific theories have caused many people to doubt the authority of Scripture. In
these last days it is important for God's church to understand what is true science and
to call man back again to the worship of the Creator. The three great messages which
are to be given in a loud cry in these days can be understood only in the light of the
power and work of the Creator.
7
LESSON 1 January 1-7
"He hath made the earth by his
power, he hath established the world
by his wisdom, and hath stretched out
the heavens by his discretion" (Jer.
10:12).
The experiences of everyday life
teach us that all that exists was made
by somebody. Our buildings, roads,
vehicles, and much more, were
designed and constructed by people.
Some of these things were made so
long ago that we do not know who
made them. We may not know when
they were made, nor even why. Such a
mystery is Stonehenge in Wiltshire,
England. There, on Salisbury Plain,
some twenty huge sandstone blocks
weighing about 28 tons stand in an
incomplete circle. Within are other
huge stones. Together they form a
monument, now in ruins, which has
puzzled historians for a long time. The
builders, their purposes, and their
methods are all unknown. The time of
building is coniectured to be about
3500 years ago. But although so little is
known about the Stonehenge
monument, no one doubts that
people erected it. There is evidence of
intelligence in its arrangement.
Some things in the world exceed
man's ability to produce. Our planet
Earth itself clearly was not produced
by man, neither was the sky over his
head, nor the air he breathes. Man is
not self-made. He is always born. But
where did the first mother and father
come from?
Wherever we find something that
people make, we conclude that it was
made by people. When we see in our
world things people cannot make, is it
reasonable to conclude that they "just
happened"?
The prophet Jeremiah declares that
God created the world and the.
heavens. Within the world there is
evidence that he is right. In the many
forms of living things we see design
that points to an intelligent Designer.
We see power that points to a
powerful Maker. We see morality that
points to a moral Person.
Who is this One pointed to by
design, power, and,
morality, and
identifieci by Jeremiah as "the Lord"?
In this week's lesson we will study
what the Bible says about the Creator
of earth and heaven.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
1.
God Above All Gods
(Jer
a
..10:11,.12):
2.
Givei
(Ps..
4
46T
3.
Satan Cannot Create
(Gen. VC
4.
The Great:
.
.
S
us
tai
ner
(Isa. 4026)
-
5.
Nolleginning=:No End
(Ps.90:2)
6.
Giver of Eternal
,
Lifer.
(1 Joluiq.5:
God the Creator
LESSON 1
❑
Sunday
January 1
Part 1
GOD ABOVE
ALL GODS
THINK IT THROUGH
How does the Lord, the true God, differ from other gods?
"Thus shall ye say unto them, The gods that have not made
the heavens and the earth, even they shall perish from the
earth, and from under these heavens. He hath made the earth
by his power, he hath established the world by his wisdom,
and hath stretched out the heavens by his discretion" (Jer.
10:11, 12).
In the tenth chapter of Jeremiah the prophet contrasts the
Lord and idols. He notes that an idol is made from a tree, crafted
and embellished by men. He likens idols to "scarecrows in a
cucumber field." They are worthless things that cannot speak,
walk, or act. And their instruction is like themselves—
"wooden." By contrast the Lord can act so mightily that He
created the heavens and the earth. His voice is heard in the
thunder, and it is He who makes the lightning, the rain, and the
wind. No scarecrow, He, but the true, living God, and everlasting
King.
"The Bible is a history that tells us of the creation of the world
and opens to us past centuries. Without it we should have been
left to conjecture and fable in regard to the occurrences of the
remote past. It reveals to us the Creator of the heavens and the
earth, with the universe that He has brought into being, and it
sheds a glorious light over the world to
come."—Counsels to
Teachers,
p. 421.
To whom will God not transfer His glory and power? Ise.
42:5, 8.
How does belief in spontaneous generation, the ability of
nonliving matter to change into living matter, relate to the
power of the Creator?
In recent times there has been a revival of belief in spontane-
ous generation. This view is totally contrary to all experience
with life and living things. It contradicts one of the most basic
laws of biology—life begets life. It also contradicts the teaching
of the Bible that the Lord made all living things.
"Not all the wisdom and skill of man can produce life in the
smallest object in nature. It is only through the life which God
Himself has imparted, that either plant or animal can live. So it is
only through the life from God that spiritual life is begotten in
the hearts of men. Unless a man is 'born from above,' he cannot
become a partaker of the life which Christ came to give. John
3:3, margin."—Steps
to Christ,
p. 67.
FURTHER STUDY
Testimonies,
vol. 8, pp. 263, 264.
10
God the Creator
LESSON 1
❑
Monday
January 2
Part 2
"With thee is the fountain of life: In thy light shall we see
GIVER
light" (Ps. 36:9).
OF LIFE
In what ways is God "the fountain of life"?
What is life? Even scientists find difficulty in defining it. Life
makes the difference between a living body and a dead one. We
observe life and experience it, but we know very little about
what makes a living person alive. The Bible points to God as the
source of all life, and the breath of God as that which quickened
Adam after God formed him of the dust of the ground. Not only
did God originate life in this world, but He also sustains the life
of every living creature.
Ellen White notes: "For all the objects of His creation the
condition is the same—a life sustained by receiving the life of
God, a life exercised in harmony with the Creator's will. To
transgress His law, physical, mental, or moral, is to place one's
self out of harmony with the universe, to introduce discord,
anarchy,
ruin."—Education,
pp. 99, 100.
How is life maintained? Acts 17:28.
"The beating heart, the throbbing pulse, every nerve and
muscle in the living organism, is kept in order and activity by the
power of an ever-present God."—The
Ministry of Healing,
p. 417
What are some ways in which the Creator's power will be
active In the future? 1 Cor. 15:51-54.
THINK IT THROUGH
In the light of today's lesson, how should a Christian regard
his birthday celebrations?
"On birthday occasions the children should be taught that
they have reason for gratitude to God for His loving-kindness in
preserving their lives for another year. Precious lessons might
thus be given. For life, health, food, and clothing, no less than
for the hope of eternal life, we are indebted to the Giver of all
mercies; and it is due to God to recognize His gifts, and to
present our offerings of gratitude to our greatest benefactor.
These birthday gifts are recognized of Heaven."—
Counsels on
Sabbath School Work,
p. 143.
FURTHER STUDY
The Desire of Ages,
pp. 785-787.
2-ASSL
,
--1-78
11
God the Creator
LESSON 1
❑
Tuesday
January 3
Part 3
What was wrong with Satan's statement to Eve in Genesis
SATAN CANNOT 3:4?
CREATE LIFE
"The serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die"
(Gen. 3:4).
The death of Adam and Eve showed that Satan either could
not or would not prevent their death. (See Gen. 5:5.) With the
opportunities offered during thousands of years, Satan has not
once made a person immortal or brought one person back to
life. It would be to his advantage to do so. Through spiritism he
makes people think the dead are alive. This trickery witnesses to
his desire to sustain his claim that Eve would not die if she
disobeyed God. We must conclude that he can't give life or
sustain it. The Bible claims that God alone can do this.
What lesson is taught by the efforts of magicians to dupli-
cate the miracles of Moses and Aaron before Pharaoh? Ex.
7:10-12; 8:17, 18.
"The magicians did not really cause their rods to become
serpents; but by magic, aided by the great deceiver, they were
able to produce this appearance. It was beyond the power of
Satan to change the rods to living serpents. The prince of evil,
though possessing all the wisdom and might of an angel fallen,
has not power to create, or to give life; this is the prerogative of
God alone. But all that was in Satan's power to do, he did; he
produced a counterfeit."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
p. 264.
Claims have been made by scientists and by the news media
that life has been created in the laboratory. On close examina-
tion these claims have been shown to be false. Will man ever be
able to create life? Claims for the creation of life may well be
made in the near future which will be difficult to refute. Labora-
tory experimentation may produce results that are difficult to
distinguish from true living organisms. In Pharaoh's court it was
difficult to tell the living serpent from the counterfeit.
THINK IT THROUGH
Since Satan cannot create life, where do offensive features
of nature come from?
"Not one noxious plant was placed in the Lord's great garden,
but after Adam and Eve sinned, poisonous herbs sprang up. In
the parable of the sower the question was asked the Master,
'Didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? how then hath it
tares?' The Master answered, 'An enemy hath done this.' All
tares are sown by the evil one. Every noxious herb is of his
sowing, and by his ingenious methods of amalgamation he has
corrupted the earth with tares."—Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary, vol.
1, p. 1086.
FURTHER STUDY
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pp. 263-265.
12
God the Creator
LESSON 1
❑
Wednesday
January 4
Part 4
THE GREAT
SUSTAINER
What aspects of God's power are taught by the stars?
"Lift up your eyes on high and see:
who created these?
He who brings out their host by number,
calling them all by name;
by the greatness of his might,
and because he is strong in power
not one is missing" (Isa. 40:26, RSV).
People often overreach themselves. They take on more jobs
than they can handle. They make more promises than they can
keep. They spend more money than they can earn. They have
larger families than they can support. Isaiah invites us to look at
the nighttime sky and assures us that God has not overreached
Himself. He can care for all that He has made. The stars we can
see with the naked eye on a clear night number about 2000.
Isaiah assures us that because of God's power "not one is
missing." And beyond our sight are countless galaxies, each
with billions of stars, all sustained by our heavenly Father.
Read the story of the manna in Exodus 16:14-35. What les-
son do you find related to today's topic?
"For forty years they [Israelites] were daily reminded by this
miraculous provision, of God's unfailing care and tender love.
In the words of the psalmist, God gave them 'of the corn of
heaven. Man did eat angels' food' (Psalm 78:24, 25)—That is,
food provided for them by the angels. Sustained by 'the corn of
heaven,' they were daily taught that, having God's promise, they
were as secure from want as if surrounded by fields of waving
grain on the fertile plains of
Canaan."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
p. 297.
What experience of king Hezekiah is evidence of the power
of God to maintain life? 2 Kings 20:5, 6.
"Upon all created things is seen the impress of the Deity.
Nature testifies of God. The susceptible mind, brought in con-
tact with the miracle and mystery of the universe, cannot but
recognize the working of infinite power. . . . A mysterious life
pervades all nature—a life that sustains the unnumbered worlds
throughout immensity, that lives in the insect atom which floats
in the summer breeze, that wings the flight of the swallow and
feeds the young ravens which cry, that brings the bud to blos-
som and the flower to
fruit."—Education,
p. 99.
What experiences in my life give evidence of God's sustain-
ing power?
Education,
pp. 113-117.
13
THINK IT THROUGH
FURTHER STUDY
God the Creator
LESSON 1
❑
Friday
January 6
Part 6
GIVER OF
ETERNAL LIFE
How do we receive eternal life?
"This is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life,
and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he
that hath not the Son of God hath not life" (1 John 5:11, 12).
The atonement made possible the use of creative power for
redemptive purposes. That power renews believers in the image
of Jesus. At the second advent it will change the living saints,
and resurrect the dead saints. Both will live forever.
"Hath the Son.
To have the Son means so to believe on Him
that He becomes to us all that His name implies: a Saviour, a
Lord, One anointed to be our King.... It means to have Christ
dwelling in the heart as the supremely honored Guest... .
"Hath life.
Literally, 'hath the life,' that is, the eternal life
referred to in v. 11. This life begins with the Christian's new
birth, and is continued in the world to come. . . . Those who
cultivate the friendship of Jesus come to share in His character.
In this way, having the Son guarantees having the life that never
ends."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary, vol.
7, p. 677.
What is the result of knowing God and Jesus His Son? John
17:3.
Here in this world it is often to our advantage to know some-
one important. But if that friend falls from his position in dis-
grace, his difficulties could spread to us. We cannot fully under-
stand what it means to us now and in the future to have God as
our friend. Furthermore there is no danger that any change in
the Godhead will ever occur. He is the same yesterday, today,
and forever.
THINK IT THROUGH
When does the believer receive everlasting life?
The saved will not have within them the intrinsic ability to live
eternally. Only as the eternal Creator God continues to bestow
upon His created beings the gift of
life
can they live forever with
Him.
"Christ became one flesh with us, in order that we might
become one spirit with Him. It is by virtue of this union that we
are to come forth from the grave,—not merely as a manifesta-
tion of the power of Christ, but because, through faith, His life
has become ours. Those who see Christ in His true character,
and receive Him into the heart have everlasting life. It is through
the Spirit that Christ dwells in us; and the Spirit of God, received
into the heart by faith, is the beginning of the life eternal."—The
Desire of Ages,
p. 388.
FURTHER STUDY
Testimonies,
vol. 3, pp. 365, 366.
15
LESSON 2 January 8-14
C:
rran
ti
on
"Thus saith the Lord, thy redeemer,
and he that formed thee from the
womb, I am the Lord that maketh all
things; that stretcheth forth the
heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad
the earth by myself" (Isa. 44:24).
Genesis 1 and 2 contain the Creation
story. Nonreligious people, and also
much of the religious world regard this
as a myth. Conservative Christians
accept this account.as
fact.
Far-reaching doctrinal consequences
result from a belief that the Creation
account
is not literal. The
integrity of
'theiSabbata
which is a memorial of
GreatiMMIgpendent on an actual
weeroftreathie activity. In addition to
th
i
rdirettdmTtiand
in Exodus 20, the
keeping of the Sabbath
is urged
both
by counsel and by example
throughout the Scriptures. Jesus
accepted the Creation story as literal
and upheld the observance of the
Sabbath. Difficulties in interpreting
the Scriptures develop when the literal
days of Creation are discounted. If the
days of Creation were long, indefinite
periods of time, the fossils could
represent the remains of plants and
animals that lived and died during
these long periods of time. We then
have problems concerning the origin
of sin. The Bible account indicates that
sin started with Eve. With sin came
death. If the buried fossils
accumulated during long, indefinite
Creation days, we are confronted with
evidences of death prior to Eve's
creation.
The first two chapters of Genesis
give us a recital of actual happenings
during a one-week Creation. These
chapters also tell us of God's great
creative power which is the basis of
worship. Because God is Creator, He
is entitled to receive our worship and
praise at all times, but especially on
the Sabbath.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
1.
The Beginning
(Gen. 1:1)
2.
The Purpose
(Isa. 43:7)
3.
The Method of Creation
(Ps. 33:6, 9)
4.
The Time of Creation
(Gen. 1:31; 2:2)
5.
In His Image
(Geri. 1:27)
6.
The Results
(Gen. 1:31)
Creation
LESSON 2
❑
Sunday
January 8
Part 1
Since God is eternal, what beginning is God referring to In
THE BEGINNING the first verse of the Bible?
"In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth"
(Gen. 1:1).
Various theories and arguments have arisen over what is
meant by "in the beginning." We may speculate, and our specu-
lation will be harmless if it is not contrary to the facts already
revealed to us in the Scriptures. These include: (1) God is not
indebted to preexisting matter, (2) the week of Creation was
composed of literal days, and (3) the seventh day was estab-
lished as a memorial of the creative activity of the previous six
days.
"The divine mind and hand have preserved through the ages
the record of creation in its purity. It is the word of God alone
that gives to us an authentic account of the creation of our
world. This word is to be the chief study in our schools."
—Counsels to Teachers,
p. 13.
"Genesis 1:1 affirms that God is before all else and that He is
the one and only cause of all else. This verse is the foundation of
all right thinking in regard to the material world. Here is set forth
the impressive truth that 'in the formation of our world, God was
not indebted to pre-existing matter' (8T 258). . . .
"No discussion of secondary questions regarding the mys-
tery of a divine creation, either as to time or method, should be
allowed to blur the fact that the real dividing line between a true
and a false belief on the subject of God and the origin of our
earth is acceptance or rejection of the truth set forth in this
verse."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary, vol.
1, pp. 207, 208.
How all-Inclusive is God's creative power? John 1:3; Isa.
44:24.
"The theory that God did not create matter when He brought
the world into existence is without foundation. In the formation
of our world, God was not indebted to pre-existing matter. On
the contrary, all things, material or spiritual, stood up before the
Lord Jehovah at His voice and were created for His own
purpose."—Testimonies,
vol. 8, pp. 258, 259.
THINK IT THROUGH
Through atomic fission matter may be changed Into energy.
At Creation God changed energy Into matter. Do I really com-
prehend what It means to have a Father who Is this kind of
powerful God?
FURTHER STUDY
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pp. 44, 45.
18
Creation
LESSON 2
❑
Monday
January 9
Part 2
What purpose is to be served by Israel's existence?
THE PURPOSE
"Even every one that is called by my name: for I have
created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made
him" (Isa. 43:7).
Isaiah refers to Israel when he writes, "I have created him for
my glory." That is, the people of Israel were to demonstrate the
importance of God to those who didn't worship Him. The same
God who brought Israel into existence created all people; and
for the same purpose. Even in the unfal len society of God's plan
where everyone would have worshiped Him, people would have
lived to the glory of God. We, too, were created for God's glory.
God receives glory whenever we make Him impressive or ad-
mirable to another person.
"God created man for His own glory, that after test and trial
the human family might become one with the heavenly family. it
was God's purpose to re-populate heaven with the human fam-
ily, if they would show themselves obedient to His every word.
Adam was to be tested, to see whether he would be obedient, as
the loyal angels, or disobedient. If he stood the test, his instruc-
tion to his children would have been only of loyalty. His mind
and thoughts would have been as the mind and thoughts of
God. He would have been taught by God as His husbandry and
building. His character would have been moulded in accor-
dance with the character of God."—Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary, vol.
1, p. 1082.
What will the person experience who accepts God as his
Creator? Ps. 146:5, 6.
"Those who abide in Jesus will be happy, cheerful, and joyful
in God. A subdued gentleness will mark the voice, reverence for
spiritual and eternal things will be expressed in the actions, and
music, joyful music, will echo from the lips; for it is wafted from
the throne of God. This is the mystery of godliness, not easily
explained, but nonetheless felt and enjoyed. A stubborn and
rebellious heart can close its doors to all the sweet influences of
the grace of God and all the joy in the Holy Ghost; but the ways
of wisdom are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are
peace. The more closely we are connected with Christ, the more
will our words and actions show the subduing, transforming
power of His
grace."—Testimonies,
vol. 4, p. 626.
THINK IT THROUGH
As one of God's created beings, how do I presently give
God glory?
FURTHER STUDY
The Ministry of Healing,
p. 415;
Education,
p. 15.
19
Creation
LESSON 2
❑
Tuesd
ay
January 10
Part 3
THE METHOD
OF CREATION
What method does the psalmist say God used to bring
worlds into existence?
"By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the
host of them by the breath of his mouth."
"For he spake, and It was done; he commanded, and it stood
fast" (Ps. 33:6, 9).
"He spake, and it was done.
Or simply 'he spoke, and it was,'
the word 'done' being supplied; or perhaps better, 'he spoke,
and it became."He' is emphatic, as is indicated in the Hebrew by
the use of the pronoun; God is set forth as Creator, in sharp
contrast with any god that might claim creative ability. The
sublimity of the language used to describe the creative acts of
God is unsurpassed in literature (see Gen. 1:3, 6, 9, 11, 14, 20, 24,
26).
"Stood fast.
Or, 'stood forth,' or simply 'stood,' heightening
the sublime simplicity of the synonymous parallelism of this
verse."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
vol. 3, pp. 709, 710.
What other expression does David use to refer to God's
creative act? Ps. 8:3.
"In the creation of man was manifest the agency of a personal
God. When God had made man in His image, the human form
was perfect in all its arrangements, but it was without life. Then
a personal, self-existing God breathed into that form the breath
of life, and man became a living, breathing, intelligent being. All
parts of the human organism were put in action. The heart, the
arteries, the veins, the tongue, the hands, the feet, the senses,
the perceptions of the mind—all began their work, and all were
placed under law. Man became a living soul. Through Jesus
Christ a personal God created man and endowed him with
intelligence and
power."—Testimonies,
vol. 8, p. 264.
We do not really know how God did His work. The references
to God's fingers and breath in Scripture may be in part sym-
bolic. However, the results of His work clearly reveal His great
power.
THINK IT THROUGH
Do I believe that God can re-create me even though I do not
know how He will do it?
"In God there is power; in Him there is strength. If they will
take hold upon it, the life-giving power of Jesus will stimulate
everyone who has named the name of
Christ."—Testimonies,
vol. 3, p. 473.
FURTHER STUDY
Christ's Object Lessons,
"Other Lessons From Seed-
sowing," pp. 80, 81.
20
Creation
LESSON 2
❑
Wednesday
January 11
Part 4
THE TIME
OF CREATION
What unit of time has its origin in the creation of the world?
"And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it
was very good. And the evening and the morning were the
sixth day" (Gen. 1:31).
"And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had
made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work
which he had made" (Gen. 2:2).
"The weekly cycle of seven literal days, six for labor, and the
seventh for rest, which has been preserved and brought down
through Bible history, originated in the great facts of the first
seven
days."—Spiritual Gifts,
vol. 3, p. 90.
What expressions in the Creation account strongly support
the literal day interpretation? Gen. 1:5, 8.
Moses speaks of the first day, the second day, etc. He talks
about the light and the darkness, the night and day, and the
evening and the morning. How could he have made his Creation
account say more clearly than it does that each day of Creation
was a literal day? In Genesis 1
yom
is the Hebrew word for day.
Throughout the Bible when this word
(yom)
is used with an
ordinal number, as in the first day, the second day, etc., it always
designates a 24-hour day.
"Geologists and biologists have taught men to believe that
this earth's early history covers millions of years, in which the
geological formation were slowly taking shape and living
species were evolving. Throughout its sacred pages the Bible
contradicts this evolution theory. The belief in a divine and
instantaneous creation as the result of words spoken by God
stands in complete opposition to the theory held by the majority
of scientists and many theologians today that the world and all
upon it came into being through a slow process of evolution
lasting for untold ages."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary, vol.
1, p.
211.
Those who believe that the days of Creation are not literal or
that the Creation story is mythical or allegorical twist and turn
the biblical Creation narrative to make it say something else.
Seventh-day Adventists have been given the task of reviving
belief in the Sabbath. The observance of the Sabbath provides a
weekly reminder that God created the world in six days and
rested on the seventh. Belief in a six-day Creation and observ-
ance of the seventh-day Sabbath reinforce each other in the
believer's mind.
FURTHER STUDY
Education,
pp. 128, 129.
21
Creation
LESSON 2
❑
Thursday
January 12
Part 5
IN HIS IMAGE
THINK IT THROUGH
What family relationship was seen in Adam's appearance?
"God created man in his own image, In the image of God
created he him; male and female created he them" (Gen.
1:27).
The words "image of God" cover a number of ideas. The most
apparent are shown by the context. Man was to relate to his
environment as God had related to the earth before its creation,
bringing new life and order to the world. The "image of God"
then meant that Adam had the ability to do, on his human level,
acts that were similar to what God did on His divine level. God
created life; man could procreate people. God made an orderly
earth system; man could maintain order in the world. God lov-
ingly provided for the needs of His creatures; similarly, man
could direct his work with a loving purpose.
"Man was to bear God's image, both in outward resemblance
and in character. Christ alone is 'the express image' (Hebrews
1:3) of the Father; but man was formed in the likeness of God.
His nature was in harmony with the will of God. His mind was
capable of comprehending divine things. His affections were
pure; his appetites and passions were under the control of
reason. He was holy and happy in bearing the image of God and
in perfect obedience to His will.
"As man came forth from the hand of his Creator, he was of
lofty stature and perfect symmetry. His countenance bore the
ruddy tint of health and glowed with the light of life and joy.
Adam's height was much greater than that of men who now
inhabit the earth. Eve was somewhat less in stature; yet her form
was noble, and full of
beauty."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
p.45.
Although the cumulative effects of sin through the millennia
have marred my physical nature, in what ways do I have, or
not have, the Image of God?
"As the coin [in the parable] bore the image and superscrip-
tion of the reigning power, so man at his creation bore the
image and superscription of God. Though now marred and dim
through the influence of sin, the traces of this inscription re-
main upon every soul. God desires to recover that soul and to
retrace upon it His own image in righteousness and holiness.
"How little do we enter into sympathy with Christ on that
which should be the strongest bond of union between us and
Him—compassion for depraved, guilty, suffering souls, dead in
trespasses and sins! The inhumanity of man toward man is our
greatest sin. Many think that they are representing the justice of
God while they wholly fail of representing His tenderness and
His great love."—The
Ministry of Healing,
p. 163.
FURTHER STUDY
The Great Controversy,
pp. 645-647.
22
Creation
LESSON 2
❑
Friday
January 13
Part 6
THE RESULTS
How did the Creator feel about His work of Creation?
"And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, It
was very good. And the evening and the morning were the
sixth day" (Gen. 1:31). (See also verses 10, 12, 18, 21, 25.)
The creation of the world and its fascinating array of plants
and animals, with man the crowning work, were the result of
love in action. An artisan finds satisfaction with the results of his
creative work. God experienced the same satisfaction when He
saw the results of His work. Add to this satisfaction the element
of love for a being created in His own image and we get a small
glimpse of God's joy when He finished His work.
"The hills, mountains, and very beautiful plains, were
adorned with plants and flowers, and tall, majestic trees of every
description, which were many times larger, and much more
beautiful, than trees now are. The air was pure and healthful,
and the earth seemed like a noble palace. Angels beheld and
rejoiced at the wonderful and beautiful works of God."—
Spiritual Gifts,
vol. 3, p. 33.
How did David react to contemplation of the works of Crea-
tion? Ps. 8:3, 4.
"Next to the Bible, nature is to be our great lessonbook. But
there is no virtue in deifying nature, for this is exalting the thing
made above the great Master Builder who designed the work,
and who every hour keeps it operating according to His
appointment."—Testimonies, vol. 6, pp. 185, 186.
THINK IT THROUGH
The beautiful Eden home has been preserved and is still
mine to enjoy if I accept God's gift of eternal life.
" 'And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and
there He put the man whom He had formed.' Everything that
God had made was the perfection of beauty, and nothing
seemed wanting that could contribute to the happiness of the
holy pair; yet the Creator gave them still another token of His
love, by preparing a garden especially for their home. In this
garden were trees of every variety, many of them laden with
fragrant and delicious fruit. There were lovely vines, growing
upright, yet presenting a most graceful appearance, with their
branches drooping under their load of tempting fruit of the
richest and most varied
hues."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pp.
46, 47.
FURTHER STUDY
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pp. 46, 47.
23
LESSON 3 lanualy15-21
"We wrestle not against flesh and
blood, but against principalities,
against powers, against the rulers of
the darkness of this world, against
s iritual wickedness in high places"
(E h. 6:12).
T
he expression, "the great
controversy," is well known among
Seventh-day Adventists. It usually
refers to a spiritual conflict between
God and Satan, between the forces of
good and the forces of evil. The
demonstration of God's power and
authority which Satan enviously
desires is in God's created works.
Because
Lucifer
was not consulted
when God laid His plans to create
man, he became jealous. He has since
gorie.abiDiff corrupting God's
creitiontW,e*e told that God "never
..
-
,-,nidderthorna thistle, or a tare. These
aTejSataigtwork,
the result of
degeneraarn, introduced by him
amorigTtlie precious
things;.
:
but
it is
throu
gh
God's immediate agency that
every bud bursts into
;
,.
blossom."--TeItiffiOnies,- vol. 6, p.
186.
As
.
a result of Satan's manipulations,
it is n
ow
_
More difficult to see clearly
dieeviderkes of creative design. Satan
has pioduCed changes that have
caused men to doubt the wisdom and
love of God. Philosophies have arisen
that eiclude creation by God as an
explanation of the origin of the earth
and of living things. God's children
should work to correct the false
impression which men have received
of God through nature and to reveal to
them again the loving care and
ministration of the Creator to His
created organisms. Sometime in the
future, God's right to this earth and to
man, by creation and by redemption,
will be manifest to every living
creature. The controversy will be
settled, the wrongs will be righted,
man will be restored to his original
fellowship with God his Maker, and he
will joyously give to his Maker the
worship and adoration which rightly
belong to
.
Him.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
1.
Ownership of the World
(Col. 1:16)
2.
Ownership Contended
(Isa: 14:14)
3.
The Spiritual Controversy
(Eph. 6:11, 12)
, •, '
4.
The Physical Controversy
(Rom. 8:Ef)
5.
Controversy Over Worship
(Luke 4:5-8)
6.
The Issue of Sovereignty
(Isa. 44:6-8)
The Great Controversy
LESSON 3
❑
Sunday
January 15
Part 1
OWNERSHIP OF
THE WORLD
Through whom did God do the work of creation?
"By him [the Son] were all things created, that are in heaven,
and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be
thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things
were created by him, and for him" (Col. 1:16).
How Inclusive is Jesus' work of creation? Col. 1:17.
"Four
things are here asserted: 1. That Jesus Christ is the
Creator of the universe;
of
all things visible and invisible;
of all
things that had a
beginning,
whether they exist in
time
or in
eternity.
2. That whatsoever was created was created
for him-
self;
that he was the
sole end
of his own work. 3. That he was
prior
to all
creation,
to all
beings,
whether in the
visible
or
invisible
world. 4. That he is the
preserver
and
governor
of all
things; for
by him all things consist.
"Now, allowing St. Paul to have understood the terms which he
used, he must have considered Jesus Christ as being truly and
properly
God."—Adam
Clarke,
Commentary,
on Col. 1:16, 17.
Of what does God claim ownership? Ps. 50:1, 10-12.
The context of this passage gives the meaning that God does
not need Israel's sacrifices because everything belongs to Him
already. Why is it His? He made it.
A maker owns his product unless he gives or sells it to
another. God never relinquished ownership of the world, even
though Satan wrested the dominion from Adam. After centuries
of sin, the psalmist still wrote, "The earth is the Lord's, and the
fulness thereof" (Ps. 24:1).
In creating, God has no competitor, and He alone retains the
rights of ownership.
THINK IT THROUGH
In what way does a person belong to God? In what way does
he not belong?
"Our first duty toward God and our fellow beings is that of
self-development. Every faculty with which the Creator has en-
dowed us should be cultivated to the highest degree of perfec-
tion, that we may be able to do the greatest amount of good of
which we are capable. Hence that time is spent to good account
which is directed to the establishment and preservation of
sound physical and mental health.
"Man is God's workmanship, His masterpiece, created for a
high and holy purpose; and on every part of the human taberna-
cle God desires to write His law. . . . Every nerve and muscle,
every mental and physical endowment, is to be kept pure."—
Sons and Daughters of God,
p. 313.
FURTHER STUDY
The Ministry of Healing,
pp. 414-417.
26
The Great Controversy
LESSON 3
❑
Monday
January 16
Part 2
What jealous desire did Lucifer develop?
OWNERSHIP
CONTENDED
"I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like
the most High" (Isa. 14:14).
"Before the fall of Satan, the Father consulted his Son in
regard to the formation of man. They purposed to make this
world, and create beasts and living things upon it, and to make
man in the image of God, to reign as a ruling monarch over every
living thing which God should create. When Satan learned the
purpose of God, he was envious at Christ, and jealous because
the Father had not consulted him in regard to the creation of
man."—Spiritual Gifts,
vol. 3, p. 36.
Why was it impossible for Lucifer to become like God? Be-
cause Lucifer was a created being, he could not become like the
Most High who is Creator. (See Eze. 28:15.)
"Little by little Lucifer came to indulge the desire for self-
exaltation. The Scripture says, 'Thine heart was lifted up be-
cause of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason
of thy brightness." Ezekiel 28:17. 'Thou hast said in thine heart,
... I will exalt my throne above the stars of God....1 will be like
the most High.' Isaiah 14:13,
14."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
p. 35.
Man has never faced a situation where an object that he has
made challenges him, the maker. Even the computer, despite
science fiction, will never challenge man because it is merely
the lifeless result (although efficient and useful) of man's crea-
tive design. God, however, now faces this problem unknown to
man—the creature challenging the Creator. Lucifer, a created
being, has challenged his Creator. All humans who refuse to
acknowledge God as their Creator challenge Him also.
With whom did Satan appear before God? Job. 1:6, 7. What
did he do there? Verses 9-11.
"After tempting man to sin, Satan claimed the earth as his,
and styled himself the prince of this world. Having conformed to
his own nature the father and mother of our race, he thought to
establish here his empire. He declared that men had chosen him
as their sovereign. Through his control of men, he held domin-
ion over the world."—The
Desire of Ages,
pp. 114, 115.
THINK IT THROUGH
Does my life confirm or deny Satan's contention that he had
the right to represent the earth in the council of heaven? How?
FURTHER STUDY
The Great Controversy,
pp. 518-520.
27
3-ASSL-1-78
The Great Controversy
LESSON 3
❑
Tuesday
January 17
Part 3
THE SPIRITUAL
CONTROVERSY
What is of greater danger to a Christian than "flesh and
blood" warriors?
"Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to
stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against
flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers,
against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against
spiritual wickedness in high places" (Eph. 6:11, 12).
"There is a grand rebellion in the earthly universe. Is there not
a great leader of that rebellion? Is not Satan the life and soul of
every species of rebellion which he himself has instigated? Is he
not the first great apostate from God? A rebellion exists. Lucifer
revolted from his allegiance and makes war on the divine gov-
ernment. Christ is appointed to put down the rebellion. He
makes this world His battlefield."—Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
vol. 4, p. 1163.
What example shows the influence on character and
spirituality when Satan is not resisted? John 13:2.
"But Judas did not walk in the light so graciously permitted to
shine upon him. By indulgence in sin he invited the temptations
of Satan. His evil traits of character became predominant. He
yielded his mind to the control of the powers of darkness, he
became angry when his faults were reproved, and thus he was
led to commit the fearful crime of betraying his Master. So do all
who cherish evil under a profession of godliness hate those who
disturb their peace by condemning their course of sin. When a
favorable opportunity is presented, they will, like Judas, betray
those who for their good have sought to reprove them."—The
Great Controversy,
p. 44.
What illustration of the great controversy does Zechariah
provide? Zech. 3:1, 2.
THINK IT THROUGH
Am I a brand in the fire, or am I a "brand plucked out of the
fire"?
Where
do I stand in the controversy? How do I know?
"In a vision given in 1880Iasked, 'Where is the security for the
people of God in these days of peril?' The answer was, 'Jesus
maketh intercession for His people, though Satan standeth at
His right hand to resist Him.' . . . As man's Intercessor and
Advocate, Jesus will lead all who are willing to be led, saying,
'Follow Me upward, step by step, where the clear light of the Sun
of Righteousness shines.'
"—Testimonies to Ministers,
p. 465.
FURTHER STUDY
The Great Controversy,
pp. ix, x.
28
The Great Controversy
LESSON 3
❑
Wednesday
January 18
Part 4
What have been the results of sin on the whole creation?
THE PHYSICAL
CONTROVERSY
"We know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in
pain together until now" (Rom. 8:22).
As soon as Adam and Eve sinned, Satan began to destroy
God's creation. Nature had reflected only love and tenderness.
Now hostility and harshness began to be manifest in nature.
Thus nature no longer exhibited God's perfect character. It
became a mixture of love and hate, a symbol of the controversy
waging beyond the sight and hearing of earth's people.
"Although we cannot explain all the details seen in what
appear to be changes resulting from sin, we do know that there
are, throughout nature, two conflicting forces, one tending
toward beauty and perfection and the other toward degenera-
tion and death. It is Satan's desire to bring discredit upon the
Creator, to cause discomfort to man, and to support his coun-
terfeit of the creation story by working through the laws of
genetics to bring about thorns on roses, stingers on nettles,
parasites, predators, and the host of other ugly and degenera-
tive changes. The Creator, on the other hand, has given plants
and animals the capacity to adapt to the crisis brought on by sin,
thus counteracting in part the power of the great destroyer."—
Harold G. Coffin,
Creation: Accident or Design,
p. 365.
What were the physical effects of the great controversy
upon Job? Job. 2:7.
THINK IT THROUGH
Do I complain about the thorns, or do I enjoy the roses?
"The same God who guides the planets works in the fruit
orchard and in the vegetable garden. He never made a thorn, a
thistle, or a tare. These are Satan's work, the result of degenera-
tion, introduced by him among the precious things; but it is
through God's immediate agency that every bud bursts into
blossom."—Testimonies,
vol. 6, p. 186.
"Through the agencies of nature, God is working, day by day,
hour by hour, moment by moment, to keep us alive, to build up
and restore us.... But the power working through these agen-
cies is the power of God."—The
Ministry of Healing,
pp. 112,
113.
FURTHER STUDY
The Desire of Ages,
pp. 337, 338, 341.
29
The Great Controversy
LESSON 3
❑
Thursday
January 19
Part
5
In exchange for "all the kingdoms of the world" what did
CONTROVERSY Satan ask of Jesus?
OVER
WORSHIP
"The devil, taking him up into an high mountain, shewed
unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.
And the devil said unto him, All this power will I give thee, and
the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whom-
soever I will I give it. If thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall
be thine. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee
behind me, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord
thy God, and him only shalt thou serve" (Luke 4:5-8).
Why does worship belong to God alone? Rev. 14:7; 4:11.
"The duty to worship God is based upon the fact that He is the
Creator and that to Him all other beings owe their existence.
And wherever, in the Bible, His claim to reverence and worship,
above the gods of the heathen, is presented, there is cited the
evidence of His creative power. 'All the gods of the nations are
idols: but the Lord made the heavens.' Psalm 96:5. 'To whom
then will ye liken Me, or shall I be equal? saith the Holy One. Lift
up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these
things.' Thus saith the Lord that created the heavens; God
himself that formed the earth and made it:... I am the Lord; and
there is none else.' Isaiah 40:25, 26; 45:18. Says the psalmist:
'Know ye that the Lord He is God: it is He that hath made us, and
not we ourselves.' 0 come, let us worship and bow down: let us
kneel before the Lord our Maker.' Psalms 100:3; 95:6. And the
holy beings who worship God in heaven state, as the reason why
their homage is due to Him: 'Thou art worthy, 0 Lord, to receive
glory and honor and power: for Thou hast created all things.'
Revelation 4:11."—The
Great Controversy,
pp. 436, 437.
If Christ had succumbed to this temptation as a quick way to
settle the question of sovereignty of this world, He would have
acknowledged by His act that someone other than the Creator
should rule the world and be entitled to worship. How grateful
we should be that the great controversy was not settled in this
way.
"The true ground of divine worship, not of that on the seventh
day merely, but of all worship, is found in the distinction be-
tween the Creator and His creatures. This great fact can never
become obsolete, and must never be forgotten."—J. N. An-
drews,
History of the Sabbath,
quoted in
The Great Controversy,
pp. 437, 438.
FURTHER STUDY
The Desire of Ages,
pp. 129, 130.
30
The Great Controversy
LESSON 3
❑
Friday
January 20
Part 6
What is the relation of God to earthly governments?
THE ISSUE OF
SOVEREIGNTY
"This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the
demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the
living may know that the most High ruleth In the kingdom of
men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over
It the basest of men" (Dan. 4:17).
Whether people recognize it or not, God is the Supreme
Power in this world. His sovereignty rests on who He is, what He
knows, and what He can do. The Bible identifies Him as the
original Person of the universe who has never been equaled by
any later person. (See Isa. 44:6-8.) His knowledge is such that He
sees the future (Isa. 42:9) and the results of any course of action.
He possesses power that makes any action possible to Him.
With that kind of Person any other ruler must rule only at His
discretion.
"In the affairs of nations God is ever 'silently, patiently work-
ing out the counsels of His own will' (Ed. 173). At times, as with
the call of Abraham, He ordains a series of events designed to
demonstrate the wisdom of His ways. Again, as in the antedilu-
vian world, He permits evil to run its course and provide an
example of the folly of opposition to right principles. But even-
tually, as in the deliverance of the Hebrewsfrom Egypt, He inter-
venes lest the forces of evil overcome His agencies for the salva-
tion of the world."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
vol. 4, p. 790.
What sovereignty is attributed to Jesus by Paul? Col. 2:9,10.
"Paul is here again emphasizing that Christ is the head of all
power and authority. His sovereign strength is the fountain of
life. The apostle's implication is that through Christ's dwelling
in us, the same victorious authority and creative power will
enable us to triumph."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary, vol.
7, p.
202.
THINK IT THROUGH
In what ways Is, or Is not, the Lord God first and last, King
In my life?
"With the sovereignty of God is bound up the well-being of
man. The glory of God is the joy and the blessing of all created
beings. When we seek to promote His glory we are seeking for
ourselves the highest good which it is possible for us to receive.
Brethren and sisters in Christ, God calls for the consecration to
His service of every faculty, of every gift, you have received from
Him. He wants you to say, with David: 'All things come of Thee,
and of Thine own have we given Thee.'
"—Testimonies,
vol.
5
,1
3
.
737.
FURTHER STUDY
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pp. 288-290.
31
LESSON 4 January 22-28
The Scittaalti-
A
Alenioricil of
Cnzation
"Speak thou also unto the children
of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye
shall keep: for it is a sign between me
and you throughout your generations;
that ye may know that I am the Lord
that doth sanctify you" (Ex. 31:13).
The Sabbath distinguishes the
Seventh-day Adventist Church from
many other Christian groups. Too
often we forget what a great influence
the Sabbath
-
has been toward helping
us be the kind of Christians we should
be. Sometimes the fact that the
observance of the seventh-day
Sabbath sets Seventh-day Adventists
apart from other Christians becomes
enlarged in our minds, and becomes
an end in itself, a form of salvation by
works. But the keeping of the Sabbath
cannot save a person any more than
any other works can save. If the
observance of this special day does
not bring us into closer fellowship
with our Creator and give us greater
insights into His love, power, and
redeeming grace, the Sabbath'will
have failed to accomplish God's
intentions for us.
The seventh-day Sabbath is a sign
which God intends His people to
carry. It is a sign which informs those
who observe us that we believe in God
as
Creator and that this Creator God is
worthy
of our worship. The
importance of this sign will increase as
.welcome to the close of earth's
hikory. Let us carry this sign not only
with humility but also with
responsibility and dignity in such a
way that it will cause our neighbors
and those with whom we associate to
desire a saving relationship with the
heavenly Father.
The Creator did not need to set apart
a day for rest after His work of
Creation. But He saw that man would
need such a day. In His loving
forethought He established this day
that we might be able to rest our weary
bodies after the days of labor and that
we might find spiritual refreshing in
the contemplation of the Creator and
His works.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
1.
The Sabbath Established
(Gen. 2:1, 2)
2.
The Purpose
(Eze. 20:20)
3.
The Basis of Worship
(Neh. 9:6)
4.
A Bulwark Against Error
(Jer. 10:14-10
5.
God Is Creator
(Rev. 4:11)
6.
A Sabbath for Eternity
(Isa. 66:22, 23)
The Sabbath-A Memorial of Creation
LESSON 4
❑
Sunday
January 22
Part 1
THE SABBATH
ESTABLISHED
How was the seventh day of Creation Week different from
the previous six days?
"Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the
host of them. And on the seventh day God ended his work
which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all
his work which he had made" (Gen. 2:1, 2).
"God ended ... ; and he rested." The seventh day of Creation
Week marked the end of a process that had taken six days to
complete. Yet the week is not complete without the seventh day
in which God rests. God had made all things good, and now He
caps them with an institution that is to be a blessing to all and a
memorial of Creation. God rests, not because He is tired, obvi-
ously, but because He considers it important for all His created
beings to rest after a period of endeavor. This is more than a
pause that refreshes. It is a pause that recognizes the Creator
and His plan and purpose to do all things well for the sake of
man who was created in His image and would soon take on
dominion over all the earth.
How does the writer to the Hebrews confirm the historicity of
the Genesis account of God's resting on the Sabbath? Heb.
4:4.
The seven-day week owes its origin to the week of Creation.
Other divisions of the calendar are related to the motions of the
moon around the earth or of the earth around the sun. But the
week is not related to any physical phenomena around the
planet. The cycle of six days of work followed by the seventh day
of rest is the result of an example set by God Himself.
References to the Sabbath in the New Testament indicate an
acceptance of the historicity of the accounts of Genesis regard-
ing Creation and the Sabbath.
THINK IT THROUGH
Show how resting on the Sabbath does not mean ceasing
from all kinds of activity.
"The Sabbath is not intended to be a period of useless inactiv-
ity. The law forbids secular labor on the rest day of the Lord; the
toil that gains a livelihood must cease; no labor for worldly
pleasure or profit is lawful upon that day; but as God ceased His
labor of creating, and rested upon the Sabbath and blessed it,
so man is to leave the occupations of his daily life, and devote
those sacred hours to healthful rest, to worship, and to holy
deeds."—The
Desire of Ages,
p. 207.
FURTHER STUDY
Spiritual Gifts,
vol. 3, pp. 90, 91.
34
The Sabbath-A Memorial of Creation
LESSON 4
❑
Monday
January 23
Part 2
Since God blessed and hallowed the Sabbath day, what are
THE PURPOSE we to do in regard to it?
"And hallow my sabbaths; and they shall be a sign between
me and you, that ye may know that I am the Lord your God"
(Eze. 20:20).
To hallow a day is to set it apart for a holy use. This means that
the normal activities of the week can be gladly laid aside on the
Sabbath. After six days' work to earn a living, we gratefully make
ourselves available on the seventh day for those activities that
are related to worship and doing good. We joyfully find our-
selves in harmony with the Genesis record and walk in the
footsteps of Jesus and His disciples, who kept the Sabbath holy.
"By keeping His Sabbath holy we are to show that we are His
people. His Word declares the Sabbath to be a sign by which to
distinguish the commandment-keeping people. Thus God's
people are to preserve among them a knowledge of Him as their
Creator. Those who keep the law of God will be one with Him in
the great controversy commenced in heaven between Satan
and God. Disloyalty to God means contention and strife against
the principles of God's
law."—Selected Messages,
bk. 2, p.160.
What reason does the fourth commandment give for keep-
ing the Sabbath? Ex. 20:11.
Man is to keep the Sabbath because God in the very begin-
ning set apart the seventh day as a day of holiness and blessing.
To neglect the Sabbath is to deny the authority of God in the first
instance and to reject an order that God has clearly laid down.
The seventh-day Sabbath, coming as it does once every week,
reminds us regularly that our God is a great God, the Creator.
When the first day of the week, which was not a memorial of
Creation, was substituted for the seventh-day Sabbath, man no
longer was reminded that his God is Creator. As a result, or-
ganic evolution, a basic tenet of modern philosophy, became
established eventually. If man had always kept the seventh-day
Sabbath, there would not now be prevalent in society this de-
grading belief that eliminates the Creator.
What knowledge about God brought forth praise and wor-
ship from David? 1 Chron. 29:11.
THINK IT THROUGH
How does my worship of God become more meaningful
when I am reminded each Sabbath that He is Creator?
FURTHER STUDY
Education,
pp. 250-252.
35
The Sabbath-A Memorial of Creation
LESSON 4
❑
Tuesday
January 24
Part 3
THE BASIS
OF WORSHIP
THINK IT THROUGH
For what reason do the hosts of heaven worship God?
"Thou, even thou, art Lord alone; thou Nast made heaven,
the heaven of heavens, with all their hosts, the earth, and all
things that are therein, the seas, and all that is therein, and
thou preservest them all; and the host of heaven worshippeth
thee" (Neh. 9:6).
It is noteworthy that, of all the created beings in heaven and
earth, only man dares to ignore the source of all being. All other
creatures worship and praise Him, animate and inanimate, rec-
ognizing His sovereignty and power. (See Psalm 148.) Can you
explain this situation?
Man, created in the image of God, should be the first to bow
down before the Creator and acknowledge His greatness. Week
after week, as he comes to the Sabbath, he should be reminded
of the One who spoke everything into existence. In grateful
acknowledgement he should bow down and worship.
What admonition does the psalmist give because God is
Creator? Ps. 95:1-6.
The sovereignty of God is evident in His created works. When
we look at mountains with their mass and height, when we look
at the sea with its depths and turbulence, when we look at the
stars and recognize the vast distances between them, we can-
not help bowing down before the majesty of One who, not only
brought them into being, but upholds and controls them from
day to day.
What are the objects that claim our attention from day to
day? How can one make sure that he is worshiping the Crea-
tor rather than the creatures?
"God's claim to reverence and worship, above the gods of the
heathen, is based upon the fact that He is the Creator, and that
to Him all other beings owe their existence.... The Sabbath, as a
memorial of God's creative power, points to Him as the maker of
the heavens and the earth. Hence it is a constant witness to His
existence and a reminder of His greatness, His wisdom, and His
love. Had the Sabbath always been sacredly observed, there
could never have been an atheist or an idolater."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
p. 336.
FURTHER STUDY
The Great Controversy,
pp. 451-455.
36
The Sabbath—A Memorial of Creation
LESSON 4
❑
Wednesday
January 25
Part 4
How does Jeremiah describe those who worship idols
A BULWARK rather than the Creator?
AGAINST
ERROR
"Every man is brutish in his knowledge: every founder is
confounded by the graven image: for his molten image is
falsehood, and there is no breath in them. They are vanity, and
the work of errors: in the time of their visitation they shall
perish. The portion of Jacob is not like them: for he is the
former of all things; and Israel is the rod of his inheritance:
The Lord of hosts is his name" (Jer. 10:14-16).
The Sabbath is not only a memorial of Creation; it is a bulwark
against error. So long as we keep the Sabbath, so long are we
saved from adopting any teaching that denies the truth of Crea-
tion as we have it recorded in Genesis 1 and 2. It also points to
the Creator as the only true object of worship.
For the word "brutish" in the above text the R.S.V. uses the
word "stupid." It is utter stupidity to turn
-
to idols and worship
them when they are lifeless and worthless, helpless and a work
of vanity.
" The true ground of divine worship, not of that on the
seventh day merely, but of all worship, is found in the distinction
between the Creator and His creatures. This great fact can never
become obsolete, and must never be forgotten.' —J. N. An-
drews,
History of the Sabbath,
chapter 27. It was to keep this
truth ever before the minds of men, that God instituted the
Sabbath in Eden; and so long as the fact that He is our Creator
continues to be a reason why we should worship Him, so long
the Sabbath will continue as its sign and memorial. Had the
Sabbath been universally kept, man's thoughts and affections
would have been led to the Creator as the object of reverence
and worship, and there would never have been an idolater, an
atheist, or an infidel. The keeping of the Sabbath is a sign of
loyalty to the true God, 'Him that made heaven, and earth, and
the sea, and the fountains of waters.'
"—The Great Controversy,
pp. 437, 438.
THINK IT THROUGH
How does Sabbath observance keep me from idolatry? Is
evolution a form of idolatry?
"The Sabbath and the family were alike instituted in Eden,
and in. God's purpose they are indissolubly linked together. On
this day more than on any other, it is possible for us to live the
life of Eden. . . . In His own day He preserves for the family
opportunity for communion with Him, with nature, and with one
another."—Education, pp. 250, 251.
FURTHER STUDY
Testimonies to Ministers,
pp. 134-136.
37
The Sabbath-A Memorial of Creation
LESSON 4
❑
Thursday
January 26
Part 5
What great truth do the 24 elders assert regarding God?
GOD IS
CREATOR
"Thou art worthy, 0 Lord, to receive glory and honour and
power: for thou hest created all things, and for thy pleasure
they are and were created" (Rev. 4:11).
It is because God is before all things, the originator and
upholder of all things, that He is the object of worship. Although
many Christian people today believe that God is Creator, they
limit His creative power. They may feel that He was responsible
for the formation of the original spark of life but that He allowed
it to develop by the process of evolution. What the world really
needs to know today is that God created man, not by a long
process of evolution, but in a moment of time, and He is able to
re-create him. Only this kind of God can save us from sin and
give us hope for the future.
What Bible evidence is there that the earth is not a con-
stantly evolving entity? Gen. 2:1, 2.
"As regards this earth, Scripture declares the work of crea-
tion to have been completed. 'The works were finished from the
foundation of the world.' Hebrews 4:3. But the power of God is
still exercised in upholding the objects of His creation. It is not
because the mechanism once set in motion continues to act by
its own inherent energy that the pulse beats, and breath follows
breath. Every breath, every pulsation of the heart, is an evidence
of the care of Him in whom we live and move and have our being.
From the smallest insect to man, every living creature is daily
dependent upon His providence."—Education, pp. 130-131.
THINK IT THROUGH
How far away Is God from each one of us? What are the evi-
dences of His presence? (See Acts 17:27-30.)
"If we will but listen, God's created works will teach us pre-
cious lessons of obedience and trust. From the stars that in their
trackless courses through space follow from age to age their
appointed path, down to the minutest atom, the things of nature
obey the Creator's will. And God cares for everything and sus-
tains everything that He has created. He who upholds the un-
numbered worlds throughout immensity, at the same time cares
for the wants of the little brown sparrow that sings its humble
song without
fear."—Steps to Christ,
pp. 85, 86.
38
The Sabbath-A Memorial of Creation
LESSON 4
❑
Friday
January 27
Part 6
A SABBATH
FOR ETERNITY
What is God's plan concerning the observance of Sabbath
in the future?
"For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will
make, shall remain before me, saith the Lord, so shall your
seed and your name remain. And it shall come to pass, that
from one new moon to another, and from one sabbath to
another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the
Lord" (Isa. 66:22, 23).
Just as the tree of the knowledge of good and evil was not
merely a tree, but was a symbol of the recognition of God's love
and authority, so the Sabbath is not only a period of time; it is a
symbol of a covenant relationship between the Creator, who
rested and blessed, and man made in the image of God, who
also rests and blesses. When man ignores the Sabbath by delib-
erately rejecting its God-given role, he is virtually rejecting the
authority of God and repudiating a loving relationship the Sab-
bath is intended to establish.
Since the loving relationship between God and His people is
intended to last forever, it is not surprising that the Sabbath
institution should last forever.
What will be a characteristic of those who live in the time of
the Lord's coming? Rev. 14:12.
THINK IT THROUGH
What do you envisage will be the activities of the Sabbath
in the earth made new?
"Now [while in Joseph's tomb] Jesus rested from the work of
redemption; and though there was grief among those who
loved Him on earth, yet there was joy in heaven. Glorious to the
eyes of heavenly beings was the promise of the future. A re-
stored creation, a redeemed race, that having conquered sin
could never fall,—this, the result to flow from Christ's com-
pleted work, God and angels saw. With this scene the day upon
which Jesus rested is forever linked. For 'His work is perfect;'
and 'whatsoever God doeth, it shall be forever.' Deut. 32:4; Eccl.
3:14. When there shall be a 'restitution of all things, which God
hath spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the
world began' (Acts 3:21), the creation Sabbath, the day on
which Jesus lay at rest in Joseph's tomb, will still be a day of rest
and rejoicing."—The
Desire of Ages,
pp. 769, 770.
FURTHER STUDY
The Desire of Ages,
pp. 283, 287-289.
39
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Uniformity or Catastrophe?
LESSON 5
❑
Sunday
January 29
Part 1
What does Peter call those who apply the concept of uni-
UNIFORMITY formity to the past and the future?
"Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last da!
,
..
scoffers, walking after their own lusts, and saying, Where 't•
the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep,
things continue as they were from the beginning of the cres'
tion" (2 Peter 3:3, 4).
Scoffers are those who reject the predictions of the prophets
and the message of Jesus (2 Peter 3:2). They cannot envisage a
day when the end will come and Jesus will be seen in the clouds
of heaven (verse 4). The basis of their rejection is the supposi-
tion that if things have operated a certain way for a number of
years, there is no reason to suppose any change will take place.
They will even project this continuity into the past, and thereby
set up a principle of uniformity by which they seek to explain all
aspects of the universe.
The rule of uniformity has been used by geologists to inter-
pret the past. According to them, past geological processes can
be understood by examining the present. Uniformity is based on
the maxim "the present is the key to the past." Because the
theory of evolution requires much time to account for change,
and because the principle of uniformity provides the concept of
aeons of time, uniformity has become the interpretive tool for
evolutionists.
THINK IT THROUGH
Why do you accept the biblical account of history rather
than the concepts and theories of man?
"I have been shown that without Bible history, geology can
prove nothing. Relics found in the earth do give evidence of a
state of things differing in many respects from the present. But
the time of their existence, and how long a period these things
have been in the earth, are only to be understood by Bible
history. It may be innocent to conjecture beyond Bible history, if
our suppositions do not contradict the facts found in the sa-
cred Scriptures. But when men leave the word of God in regard
to the history of creation, and seek to account for God's creative
works upon natural principles, they are upon a boundless
ocean of uncertainty. Just how God accomplished the work of
creation in six literal days he has never revealed to mortals."—
Spiritual Gifts,
vol. 3, p. 93.
FURTHER STUDY
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pp. 113-116.
42
Uniformity or Catastrophe?
LESSON 5
❑
Monday
January 30
Part 2
What catastrophic event does the apostle Peter look for-
CATASTROPHE ward to?
"Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God,
wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the
elements shall melt with fervent heat" (2 Peter 3:12).
In contrast to the uniformitarian belief, catastrophism claims
that unnatural events have occurred in the past. These geologi-
cal events cannot be understood by examining the modern
world—except as the observations are related to the study of
the Scriptures. The Bible contains the only accurate account of
Creation and the Flood (as portrayed in vision to Moses who
recorded them in Genesis). Accurate accounts of future un-
natural events (conveyed in the same way to prophets in both
the Old and New Testaments) have also been recorded for our
warning and admonition.
"That voice shakes the heavens and the earth. There is a
mighty earthquake, 'such as was not since men were upon the
earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great.' Rev. 16:17, 18.
The firmament appears to open and shut. The glory from the
throne of God seems flashing through. The mountains shake
like a reed in the wind, and ragged rocks are scattered on every
side. There is a roar as of a coming tempest. The sea is lashed
into fury. There is heard the shriek of the hurricane like the voice
of demons upon a mission of destruction. The whole earth
heaves and swells like the waves of the sea. Its surface is break-
ing up. Its very foundations seem to be giving way. Mountain
chains are sinking. Inhabited islands disappear. The seaports
that have become like Sodom for wickedness are swallowed up
by the angry waters."—The
Great Controversy,
pp. 636, 637.
In contrast to the Genesis Flood, what will cause destruc-
tion on the earth at Christ's second coming? 2 Peter 3:12;
2 Thess. 1:8.
THINK IT THROUGH
What confidence can the Christian place in God and His
Word? (See Psalm 91.)
"A marvelous change has come over those who have held fast
their integrity in the very face of death. They have been suddenly
delivered from the dark and terrible tyranny of men transformed
to demons. Their faces, so lately pale, anxious, and haggard, are
now aglow with wonder, faith, and love. Their voices rise in
triumphant song: 'God is our refuge and strength, a very pres-
ent help in trouble.'
"—The Great Controversy,
p. 639.
FURTHER STUDY
Testimonies,
vol. 9, pp. 11-18.
4-ASSL-1-78
43
Uniformity or
Catastrophe?
LESSON 5
❑
Tuesday
January 31
Part 3
What does the apostle Peter point to as an example of an
CREATION
unnatural (nonuniform) event which contradicts the claim of
the scoffers? Why do they disbelieve in Creation?
"In taking this view they lose sight of the fact that there were
heavens and earth long ago, created by God's word out of
water and with water" (2 Peter 3:5, N.E.B.).
"There is a constant effort made to explain the work of crea-
tion as the result of natural causes; and human reasoning is
accepted even by professed Christians, in opposition to plain
Scripture facts. There are many who oppose the investigation of
the prophecies, especially those of Daniel and the Revelation,
declaring them to be so obscure that we cannot understand
them; yet these•very persons eagerly receive the suppositions of
geologists, in contradiction of the Mosaic record. But if that
which God has revealed is so difficult to understand, how in-
consistent it is to accept mere suppositions in regard to that
which He has not revealed
!"—Patriarchs and Prophets,
p. 113.
"The sophistry in regard to the world being created in an
indefinite period of time is one of Satan's falsehoods. God
speaks to the human family in language they can comprehend.
He does not leave the matter so indefinite that human beings
can handle it according to their theories."—Ellen G. White,
Letter 31,
1898.
To be a creationist
or
an evolutionist is a matter of faith, since
neither can be proved true. To be a creationist is to have faith in
the creation account of origins, in a Creator God and in the
inspiration of Scripture. To be an evolutionist is to have faith in
the evolutionary account of origins, in the accuracy of the scien-
tists' interpretation of data, and in the ability of life to arise,
unaided by intelligence, from lifelessness.
THINK IT THROUGH
How can you be saved from delusions that come upon the
earth in the last days?
"The Christian is required to be diligent in searching the
Scriptures, to read over and over again the truths of God's word.
Willful ignorance on this subject endangers the Christian life
and character. It blinds the understanding and corrupts the
noblest powers. It is this that brings confusion into our lives.
Our people need to understand the oracles of God; they need to
have a systematic knowledge of the principles of revealed truth,
which will fit them for what is coming upon the earth and
prevent them from being carried about by every wind of
doctrine."—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 273.
FURTHER STUDY
Education,
pp. 130, 131.
44
Uniformity or Catastrophe?
LESSON 5
❑
Wednesday
February 1
Part 4
As a second example, what did the apostle Peter point to as
THE FLOOD an example of catastrophism?
"Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with
water, perished" (2 Peter 3:6).
The Genesis Flood had a profound effect on the surface of the
earth and is the key to understanding geology. Most of the
characteristics of the crust of the earth, the thick beds of sedi-
ments, their fossil contents, and the strong marks of erosion
came about through the action of flood waters.
-
Geologists claim to find evidence from the earth itself that it
is very much older than the Mosaic record teaches. . . .
"
In the history of the Flood, inspiration has explained that
which geology alone could never
fathom."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
p. 112.
What did Jesus point to as an example of catastrophe?
Matt. 24:37-39.
What future event, similar to the Flood, will surprise those
unprepared? Matt. 24:39, last part.
"The solemn fact is to be kept not only before the people of
the world, but before our own churches also, that the day of the
Lord will come suddenly, unexpectedly. The fearful warning of
the prophecy is addressed to every soul. Let no one feel that he
is secure from the danger of being surprised. Let no one's
interpretation of prophecy rob you of the conviction of the
knowledge of events which show that this great event is near at
hand."—Fundamentals of Christian Education,
p. 336.
THINK IT THROUGH
What evidences do you have that God's word is safer to rely
on than the prognostications of scientists?
"In Noah's day philosophers declared that it was impossible
for the world to be destroyed by water; so now there are men of
science who endeavor to show that the world cannot be de-
stroyed by fire—that this would be inconsistent with the laws of
nature. But the God of nature, the Maker and Controller of her
laws, can use the works of His hands to serve His own purpose.
"When great and wise men had proved to their satisfaction
that it was impossible for the world to be destroyed by water,
when the fears of the people were quieted, when all regarded
Noah's prophecy as a delusion, and looked upon him as a
fanatic—then it was that God's time had
come."—Patriarchs
and Prophets, pp. 103, 104.
FURTHER STUDY
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pp. 108-110.
45
Uniformity or Catastrophe?
LESSON 5
❑
Thursday
February 2
Part 5
A TIME OF
JUDGMENT
What third example does Peter use against the uniformi-
tarian arguments of the scoffers?
"The heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same
word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of
judgment and perdition of ungodly men."
"But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in
the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and
the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and
the works that are therein shall be burned up" (2 Peter 3:7,10).
"When the reasoning of philosophy has banished the fear of
God's judgments; when religious teachers are pointing forward
to long ages of peace and prosperity, and the world are ab-
sorbed in their rounds of business and pleasure, planting and
building, feasting and merrymaking, rejecting God's warnings
and mocking His messengers—then it is that sudden destruc-
tion cometh upon them, and they shall not escape."—
Patriarchs and Prophets,
p. 104.
What power involved in creation of the earth Is now preserv-
ing and maintaining the earth until the time of Judgment?
2 Peter 3:5, 7.
The day of judgment referred to in verse 7 could refer to either
the second coming of Christ or the time of judgment at the end
of the millennium. The context suggests that Peter is thinking
mostly of the second coming.
What are some of the expressions of catastrophe Peter
uses in describing the "day of judgment"? Verses 10, 12.
THINK IT THROUGH
Peter poses this searching question: "Seeing then that all
these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons
ought ye to be?" What does this really mean to me?
"When the divine Presence was manifested upon Sinai, the
glory of the Lord was like devouring fire in the sight of all Israel.
But when Christ shall come in glory with His holy angels the
whole earth shall be ablaze with the terrible light of His pres-
ence. 'Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence: a fire
shall devour before Him, and it shall be very tempestuous round
about Him. He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the
earth, that He may judge His people.' Psalm 50:3, 4. A fiery
stream shall issue and come forth from before Him, which shall
cause the elements to melt with fervent heat, the earth also, and
the works that are therein shall be burned
up."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
p. 339.
FURTHER STUDY
The Great Controversy,
pp. 630-639.
46
Uniformity or Catastrophe?
LESSON 5
❑
Friday
February 3
Part 6
NEW HEAVENS
AND NEW EARTH
Despite catastrophe, what bright prospect for the future
does the Christian have?
"Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new
heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness"
(2 Peter 3:13).
"To dwell forever in this home of the blest, to bear in soul,
body, and spirit, not the dark traces of sin and the curse, but the
perfect likeness of our Creator, and through ceaseless ages to
advance in wisdom, in knowledge, and in holiness, ever explor-
ing new fields of thought, ever finding new wonders and new
glories, ever increasing in capacity to know and to enjoy and to
love, and knowing that there is still beyond us joy and love and
wisdom infinite—such is the object to which the Christian's
hope is pointing, for which Christian education is preparing. To
secure this education, and to aid others to secure it, should be
the object of the Christian's I
ife."—Counselsto Teachers,
p. 55.
In verse 5 we noticed that God's word created the earth. In
verse 7, that word preserves the earth. The same word promises
new heavens and new earth. We have every reason to believe
God can and will keep that promise.
"Let all that is beautiful in our earthly home remind us of the
crystal river and green fields, the waving trees and living foun-
tains, the shining city and the white-robed singers, of our
heavenly home—that world of beauty which no artist can pic-
ture, no mortal tongue describe. 'Eye hath not seen, nor ear
heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things
which God hath prepared for them that love Him.' 1 Corinthians
2:9."—Counsels to Teachers,
p. 55.
What admonition is given those who look for new heavens
and new earth? 2 Peter 3:14.
THINK IT THROUGH
When is catastrophe a blessing? To whom can it be a trag-
edy? When Is uniformity a blessing?
"The trials to which Christians are subjected in sorrow, ad-
versity, and reproach are the means appointed of God to sepa-
rate the chaff from the wheat. Our pride, selfishness, evil pas-
sions, and love of worldly pleasure must all be overcome; there-
fore God sends us afflictions to test and prove us, and show us
that these evils exist in our characters. We must overcome
through His strength and
grace."—Testimonies,
vol. 3, p. 115.
FURTHER STUDY
Early Writings,
pp. 288, 289.
47
LESSON 6 February 5-11
Doves
lo Me Church
"Keep that which is committed to
thy trust, avoiding profane and vain
babblings, and oppositions of science
falsely so called' (1 Tim. 6:20).
The increase of false science and its
influence on the populations of the
world will be especially noticeable as
the time of the end approaches.
Miracles of healing which can be
demonstrated to be valid and
authentic, but which will not be the
work of the Spirit of God, will become
common. Claims that the creation of
life has been accomplished by men in
the laboratory may become more
insistent. It may become as difficult to
distinguish the genuine from the false
as it was to separate living from
nonliving serpents in Pharaoh's court.
Science will be used to prepare the
people for the last, almost
overpowering delusion—the imitation
by Satan of the coming of Christ.
Have some members of the church
been strongly influenced by the
conclusions of scientists? This is not
surprising. Science is impressive, it is
convincing. Pronouncements in
biology, geology, or astronomy which
are contrary to the Inspired Word of
God may have disturbed some and
raised
-
doubgin minds. There is only
one way to resolve these problems:
Go to the sources of inspired truth and
accept their simple and authoritative
statements as God's word for you. It
may be
,
necessary for the Christian
believer sooner or later to deny what
looks like strong evidence, but such a
procedure can never safely be taken
unless the mind is first stored with
scriptural truths. The day is coming,
indeed it is already here, when
evidence for an age of billions of years
for life upon the earth will seem
sufficient to constitute proof, when a
drop of gel in a test tube will appear to
have all the characteristics of life,
when the evolutionary development
of man seems undeniable. The day is
coming soon when sights in the
heavens and on the earth will deceive
millions. But he who searches and
believes God's inspired messages to
man will not be misled. True science,
which comes from God and leads to
God, is not in conflict with God's
Word.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
1.
Doctrines of Men
(Matt. 15:9)
2.
Worshiping Nature
(Rom. 1:20)
3.
Forgetting God
(Deut. 6:12)
4.
The Denial of Sin
(Rom. 5:12)
5.
Misunderstanding
Inspiration (2 Peter 112)
6.-Accepting`False Science
(Prov. 9:10)
Dangers to the Church
LESSON 6
❑
Sunday
February 5
Part 1
DOCTRINES
OF MEN
THINK IT THROUGH
What is a danger religious people often face?
"In vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the
commandments of men" (Matt. 15:9).
It is not the religiously indifferent or the secular minded who
face the danger of replacing the teachings of the Bible with
human theories; it is those who recognize the importance of
religion in their lives and have a form of godliness, yet fail to
exercise what religion really means. They follow the outward
forms, but their hearts are not in their worship. (See Matt. 15:8.)
Where does the Christian find his supreme authority and the
light of truth? Ps. 119:105.
"The Bible is the most instructive and comprehensive history
that has ever been given to the world. Its sacred pages contain
the only authentic account of the creation. Here we behold the
power that 'stretched forth the heavens, and laid the founda-
tions of the earth.' Here we have a truthful history of the human
race, one that is unmarred by human prejudice or human
pride."—Fundamentals of Christian Education,
pp. 84, 85.
What was the attitude of Jesus to the Scriptures? Matt.
5:17, 18.
Give examples to show how Jesus accepted the truth and
accuracy of the Scriptures as to:
(a)
the historicity of Jonah (Matt. 12:40)
(b)
the creation of man (Matt. 19:4)
It is obvious that Jesus did not look upon the Old Testament
as a collection of fables.
What should the Christian do when he finds a conflict be-
tween the teachings of the Bible and the so-called findings
of science?
"In true science there can be nothing contrary to the teaching
of the word of God, for both have the same Author. A correct
understanding of both will always prove them to be in harmony.
Truth, whether in nature or in revelation, is harmonious with
itself in all its manifestations."—Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 258.
FURTHER STUDY
Selected Messages,
bk. 1, pp. 15, 16.
50
Dangers to the
Church
LESSON 6
❑
Monday
February 6
Part 2
What does Paul say is obvious to the one who studies
WORSHIPING nature?
NATURE
"The invisible things of him from the creation of the world
are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are
made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are
without excuse" (Rom. 1:20).
It is illogical to suppose that the world around us is self-
originating or self-perpetuating. Behind nature is nature's God,
the One who made "heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all
things that are therein" (Acts 14:15).
There are phenomena in nature that are frightening—
earthquakes, tornadoes, volcanic eruptions. You can think of
others. But there are also aspects of nature that are very beauti-
ful: the mountain peak with its cap of snow, the stream gurgling
its way to the valley below, the sunset glow, and others. Im-
pressed with these things, some people have glorified nature
and worshiped it. But we need to look beyond nature to the One
who controls everything by His mighty hand.
Study the following phenomena of nature that have accom-
panied God's activity:
(a)
The Flood (Genesis 7 and 8). How far was this the work of
nature, if at all?
(b)
Sinai (Ex. 19:18). Do you think that a realization of the
power of God in nature can lead to a healthy regard and respect
for God? Why is this so?
(c)
The crucifixion and resurrection (Matt. 27:51; 28:2).
"If the soldiers at the sepulcher were so filled with terror at the
appearance of one angel clothed with heavenly light and
strength, that they fell as dead men to the ground, how will His
enemies stand before the Son of God, when He comes in power
and great glory, accompanied by ten thousand times ten
thousand and thousands of thousands of angels from the
courts of heaven? Then the earth shall reel to and fro like a
drunkard, and be removed as a cottage."—Ellen G. White
Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
vol. 5, p. 1110.
THINK IT THROUGH
What experience have you had in which you were awed by
nature but recognized a God beyond?
FURTHER STUDY
Education,
pp. 132-134.
51
Dangers to the Church
LESSON 6
❑
Tuesday
February 7
Part 3
What warning did Moses give to Israel?
FORGETTING
GOD
"Beware lest thou forget the Lord, which brought thee forth
out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage" (Deut.
6:12).
It was prosperity that Moses warned would lead the people to
forget God. (See verses 10, 11.)
"There are many whose hearts have been so hardened by
prosperity that they forget God, and forget the wants of their
fellow-men.... Men and women who claim redemption through
a Saviour's blood will squander the means intrusted to them for
the saving of other souls, and then grudging dole out their
offerings for religion, giving liberally only when it will bring
honor to themselves. These are idolaters."—Sons
and
Daughters of God,
p. 57.
What question did the Lord ask about Judah's relation to
Him? Isa. 51:12, 13.
Judah experienced the fear of man when they forgot God
their Creator. If God made them and the world they lived in, why
should they be afraid of an oppressor?
When our thoughts are filled with fear of what people will do
to us, or fear of some other possible harm, then the mind is
directed away from God.
"Our minds must be stayed upon God, and we must not fear
the fear of the wicked, that is, fear what they fear, and reverence
what they reverence, but be bold and valiant for the truth. Could
our eyes be opened, we should see forms of evil angels around
us, trying to invent some new way to annoy and destroy us. And
we should also see angels of God guarding us from their power:
for God's watchful eye is ever over Israel for good, and He will
protect and save His people, if they put their trust in Him. When
the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift
up a standard against him."—
Early Writings,
p. 60.
THINK IT THROUGH
What can I do to assure my remembering God in prosperity
or in trouble?
"The Lord designed that by a faithful observance of the Sab-
bath command, Israel should continually be reminded of their
accountability to Him as their Creator and their Redeemer.
While they should keep the Sabbath in the proper spirit, idolatry
could not exist; but should the claims of this precept of the
Decalogue be set aside as no longer binding, the Creator would
be forgotten and men would worship other
gods."—Prophets
and Kings,
p. 182.
FURTHER STUDY
The Desire of Ages,
pp. 659-661.
52
Dangers to the Church
LESSON 6
❑
Wednesday
February 8
Part 4
THE DENIAL
OF SIN
How does the apostle Paul describe the origin of sin?
"Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and
death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all
have sinned" (Rom. 5:12).
Paul did not question the historicity of the Genesis account of
the creation and fall of man. By contrast, there is no place in the
theory of evolution for the origin of sin. Instead of a loss of
original perfection through the entrance of sin, the evolutionist
sees mankind constantly improving. Evolving people have no
need for the atoning blood of Jesus Christ—only sinners do.
Is man a sinner or is he not? Paul makes it clear that
all
have
sinned.
How does Scripture define sin? 1 John 3:4.
There is an inherent tendency to evil in all men. They find it
easy to hate, to indulge in sexual sins, to transgress the laws of
health. Shall man excuse himself on the basis of environment or
quirks of nature? Many do, and thus deny that sin is a deliberate
choice to do evil. Some will deny that evil really exists and will
talk of crime, for example, as a kind of disease which needs to
be cured. It is true that diseases are rampant and man needs all
the arts of medicine, but he needs more than physical treat-
ment; he needs the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
"In these scriptures [Rev. 6:12-17 and Rev. 7:9-17] two parties
are brought to view. One party permitted themselves to be
deceived and took sides with those with whom the Lord has a
controversy. They misinterpreted the messages sent them and
clothed themselves in robes of self-righteousness. Sin was not
sinful in their eyes. They taught falsehood as truth, and by them
many souls were led astray.
"We need now to take heed to ourselves. Warnings have been
given. Can we not see the fulfillment of the predictions made by
Christ and recorded in the twenty-first chapter of Luke? How
many are studying the words of Christ? How many are deceiving
their own souls and cheating themselves out of the blessings
that others might secure if they would believe and obey? Proba-
tion still lingers, and it is our privilege to lay hold of the hope set
before us in the gospel. Let us repent and be converted and
forsake our sins, that they may be blotted
out."—Testimonies,
vol. 9, p. 268.
THINK IT THROUGH
Show how man can be responsible for every action of his.
State why there is no excuse for sin.
FURTHER STUDY
Testimonies,
vol. 5, pp. 140-142.
53
Dangers to the Church
LESSON 6
❑
Thursday
February 9
Part 5
What moving force was involved in the writing of Holy Scrip-
MISUNDERSTANDING ture?
INSPIRATION
"The prophecy came not In old time by the will of man: but
holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy
Ghost" (2 Peter 1:21).
"Although I am as dependent upon the Spirit of the Lord in
writing my views as I am in receiving them, yet the words I
employ in describing what I have seen are my own, unless they
be those spoken to me by an angel, which I always enclose in
marks of quotation."—Selected
Messages,
bk. 1, p. 37.
The Scriptures were written over a span of many years.
Are they all inspired? 2 Tim. 3:16, 17.
"He [God] has not, while presenting the perils clustering
about the last days, qualified any finite man to unravel hidden
mysteries or inspired one man or any class of men to pronounce
judgment as to that which is inspired or is not. When men, in
their finite judgment, find it necessary to go Into an examination
of scriptures to define that which is inspired and that which is
not, they have stepped before Jesus to show Him a better way
than He has led us.
"I take the Bible just as it is, as the Inspired Word. I believe its
utterances in an entire Bible. . . .
"Brethren, cling to your Bible, as it reads, and stop your
criticisms in regard to its validity, and obey the Word, and not
one of you will be
lost."—Selected Messages,
bk. 1, pp. 17, 18.
THINK IT THROUGH
What shall I do about my belief in some inspired statements
that have not been sustained by science?
"God is the foundation of everything. All true science is in
harmony with His works; all true education leads to obedience
to His government. Science opens new wonders to our view;
she soars high and explores new depths; but she brings nothing
from her research that conflicts with divine revelation. Ignor-
ance may seek to support false views of God by appeals to
science; but the book of nature and the written Word do not
disagree; each sheds light on the other. Rightly understood,
they make us acquainted with God and His character by teach-
ing us something of the wise and beneficent laws through
which He works."—Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible
Commentary, vol.
7, p. 916
FURTHER STUDY
Selected Messages,
bk. 1, pp. 16-18.
54
Dangers to the Church
LESSON 6
❑
Friday
February 10
Part 6
ACCEPTING
FALSE SCIENCE
THINK IT THROUGH
What Is the basis of all true knowledge?
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the
knowledge of the holy is understanding" (Prov. 9:10).
"All true science is but an interpretation of the handwriting of
God in the material world. Science brings from her research
only fresh evidences of the wisdom and power of God. Rightly
understood, both the book of nature and the written word make
us acquainted with God by teaching us something of the wise
and beneficent laws through which He
works."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
p. 599.
How does Paul warn against a knowledge that is falsely so
called? 1 Tim. 6:20.
Scientific method has its place in the pursuit of knowledge,
but it is limited in scope. It can tell us much about our world; it
can tell us how to travel to the moon and undertake other
unbelievable projects. But it cannot tell us anything about ori-
gins; it cannot forecast the distant future. When science pre-
sumes to tell us how the world began, or what our destiny is,
then science goes beyond its bounds and is immediately sus-
pect. Only the One who created the universe can reveal when
and why and how He did it. Only the Bible can speak with
authority in such matters.
"There should be a settled faith in the divinity of God's holy
word. The Bible is not to be tested by men's ideas of science, but
science is to be brought to the test of this unerring standard.
When the Bible makes statements of facts in nature, science
may be compared with the written word, and a correct under-
standing of both will always prove them to be in harmony. One
does not contradict the other."—Ellen G. White,'Signs of the
Times,
March 13, 1884.
Why is there a popular concept that there Is a contradic-
tion between the Bible and science? Show how the Bible has
been misinterpreted In the past so as to conflict with the evi-
dence of scientific research. What does Ellen White say about
the importance of scientific knowledge?
"The college at Battle Creek was established for the purpose
of teaching the sciences and at the same time leading the
students to the Saviour, whence all true knowledge flows. Edu-
cation acquired without Bible religion is disrobed of its true
brightness and glory.... The great object in the establishment
of our college was to give correct views, showing the harmony
of science and Bible religion."—Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 274.
FURTHER STUDY
Testimonies,
vol. 8, pp. 257-261.
55
"Seek ye first the kingdom of God,
and his righteousness; and all these
things shall be added unto you" (Matt.
6:33).
Those who truly believe that God is
Creator will not worry. The true
follower of Christ finds among the
beauties of nature a peace of mind, a
strength, and a calmness that help to
sustain him. Is this not due to the fact
that he sees in the created things his
heavenly Father's power and ability to
sustain him? Is this not why Jesus
pointed
to
the things of nature as
evidences of God's care and reasons
why we should trust Him?
'All who have chosen God's service
are to rest in His care. Christ pointed
to the birds flying in the heavens, to
the flowers of the field, and bade His
hearers consider these objects of
God's creation. 'Are not ye of much
more value than they?' He said. Matt.
6:26, R.V. The measure of divine
attention, bestowed on 'any object is
proportionate to its rank in the scale of
being. The little brown sparrow is
watched over by Providence. The
flowers of the field, the grass that
carpets the earth, share the notice and
care of our heavenly Father. The great
Master Artist has taken thought for the
lilies, making them so beautiful that
they outshine the glory of Solomon.
How much more does He care for
man, who is the image and glory of
God."—The
Desire of Ages,
p. 313.
Since God has done and is doing so
much for us, it is obvious that we
should respond by seeking first "the
kingdom of God, and his
righteousness." This means that we
look upon the affairs of this world as
taking a secondary place in our lives,
and we devoteevery energy to
accomplfshing God's plans and
purposehfOr us.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
1.
His Power to Sustain
(Matt. 6:25) •
2.
His Carefor His Creatures
(Matt. 6:26)
3.
His "Love of Beauty
(Matt. 6:28-30)
4.
His Provisioniof Work
(Gen. 2:15)
5.
His Provision of Life's Necessities
(Matt.-6:31,>32);-
;
6.
Man's First Concern
(Matt. 6:33, 34)
Trust in the Creator
LESSON 7
❑
Sunday
February 12
Part 1
HIS POWER
TO SUSTAIN
THINK IT THROUGH
How does Jesus show that the One who created us will also
provide for our living?
"Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life,
what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body,
what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the
body than raiment?" (Matt. 6:25).
"He who has given you life knows your need of food to sustain
it. He who created the body is not unmindful of your need of
raiment. Will not He who has bestowed the greater gift bestow
also what is needed to make it complete?"—Thoughts
From the
Mount of Blessing,
p. 95.
What two examples from the Old Testament show God's
power to sustain? 1 Kings 17:3, 6, 14-16.
Many question the miracles performed in Elijah's day, but in
so doing they are denying God's power to sustain life by other
than normal means. God does not always work a miracle to
provide our needs, but it is assuring to know that if this is
necessary He will not fail to do so.
What example from the New Testament is an Illustration of
creative power operating to provide sustenance for man?
John 6:5-13.
It is significant to note that in the above miracles God makes
use of what is already available: The widow had a jar of oil; the
disciples found five loaves and two fishes. God takes what man
has to offer and multiplies it according to need.•
God is no less powerful today than He was in the days of old.
Modern life may be different, but our needs are just as real, and
God's power is just as effective.
How often have you found your needs met in an outstanding
way by a loving heavenly Father? Be prepared to recount
your experience to the class. What is the basis of trust in God?
"Not because we see or feel that God hears us are we to
believe. We are to trust in His promises. When we come to Him in
faith, every petition enters the heart of God. When we have
asked for His blessing, we should believe that we receive it, and
thank Him that we
have
received it. Then we are to go about our
duties, assured that the blessing will be realized when we need
it most. When we have learned to do this, we shall know that our
prayers are answered."—The
Desire of Ages,
p. 200.
FURTHER STUDY
Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, "The
True Motive in
Service" (Matt. 6:25), pp. 95-98.
58
Trust in the Creator
LESSON 7
❑
Monday
February 13
Part 2
HIS CARE FOR
HIS CREATURES
What example does Jesus give that should encourage us to
trust Him for daily food?
"Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they
reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth
them. Are ye not much better than they?" (Matt. 6:26).
Birds were not considered to be of very great value in Bible
times. (See Matt. 10:29.) Yet God cares for them. They are
dependent for their food on what God has provided. Further,
some birds have the ability to navigate accurately over long
distances. Part of their ability to find their way seems to stem
from their observations of the starry sky. The physiology of the
animal may also be involved. In the springtime a certain star
configuration in the sky may cause the bird to migrate toward
the north. In the fall the same birds would respond in the oppo-
site direction to the same or another star pattern. The improba-
bility that this type of behavior could arise through natural
selection and survival of the fittest is staggering.
The study of birds and animals is full of examples of God's
protecting care. This is not to deny the preying habits of one
creature on another, but to recognize that all creatures have
built-in instincts that warn of danger and make for survival.
What comparison of values does Jesus make to help us
learn to trust Him? Luke 12:6, 7.
THINK IT THROUGH
Why is it that many Christians worry? What is the antidote
to worry?
"When we take into our hands the management of things with
which we have to do, and depend upon our own wisdom for
success, we are taking a burden which God has not given us,
and are trying to bear it without His aid. We are taking upon
ourselves the responsibility that belongs to God, and thus are
really putting ourselves in His place. . . . But when we really
believe that God loves us and means to do us good we shall
cease to worry about the future. We shall trust God as a child
trusts a loving parent. Then our troubles and torments will
disappear, for our will is swallowed up in the will of God."—
Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing,
pp. 100, 101.
"Let the fresh blessings of each new day awaken praise in our
hearts for these tokens of His loving care."—The
Ministry of
Healing,
p. 253.
FURTHER STUDY
Testimonies,
vol. 2, pp. 496, 497.
59
Trust in the Creator
LESSON 7
❑
Tuesday
February 14
Part 3
HIS LOVE
OF BEAUTY
What contrast does Jesus draw between the clothing of a
king and the beauty of living plants?
"Why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the
field, how they grow; they toll not, neither do they spin: and yet
I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not
arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the
grass of the field, which to day Is, and to morrow is cast into
the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, 0 ye of little
faith?" (Matt. 6:28-30).
The objects which man makes, no matter how careful he may
be, will always show crudeness and lack of perfection, espe-
cially if viewed under magnification. The objects that God
created always reveal greater and more perfect detail under
magnification.
"Christ pointed His disciples to the flowers of the field, grow-
ing in rich profusion and glowing in the simple beauty which the
heavenly Father had given them, as an expression of His love to
man.... The most gorgeous attire produced by the skill of art
cannot bear comparison with the natural grace and radiant
beauty of the flowers of God's creation. . . . If God, the divine
Artist, gives to the simple flowers that perish in a day their
delicate and varied colors, how much greater care will He have
for those who are created in His own image?"—Steps
to Christ,
pp. 123, 124.
What was Solomon's glory like? 2 Chron. 9:17-22.
There is nothing wrong with wealth in itself. But we are not to
covet what we do not have; nor forget to give glory to God for
what we have.
In Matthew 6:28-30 Jesus makes a striking contrast between
clothing artificially made and the natural beauty of flowers in
the field. God is a lover of the beautiful. It is not a question of
how long that beauty is to last; many plants live and bloom for
only a short time. God intends that everything shall be beautiful,
and we may be sure that He intends that our lives shall be
beautiful too.
We may seek to adorn ourselves with silks and satins, and
make ourselves attractive with perfumes and color, but there is
no beauty so appealing as that which comes from the hand of
the Creator in terms of a meek and gentle and loving spirit, a
whole and healthy personality which comes from the re-creative
activity of God in the life.
How can I give glory to God for everything that I own and for
all the beautiful experiences of life?
Counsels to Teachers,
pp. 185, 186.
THINK IT THROUGH
FURTHER STUDY
60
Trust in the Creator
LESSON 7
❑
Wednesday
February 15
Part 4
HIS PROVISION
OF WORK
THINK IT THROUGH
What responsibility of stewardship did God place upon
Adam in Eden?
"The Lord God took the man, and put him into the garden of
Eden to dress it and to keep it" (Gen. 2:15).
Just as the Creator cares for His creation, so man, created in
His image, has the responsibility of caring for that which has
been placed under his dominion.
"In the laws which God gave for the cultivation of the soil, He
was giving the people opportunity to overcome their selfishness
and become heavenly-minded. Canaan would be to them as
Eden if they obeyed the Word of the Lord. Through them the
Lord designed to teach all the nations of the world how to
cultivate the soil so that it would yield healthy fruit, free from
disease. The earth is the Lord's vineyard, and is to be treated
according to His plan."—Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A.
Bible Commentary, vol.
1, p. 1112.
Modern man lives in a materialistic society. He somehow feels
that happiness is directly proportional to the wealth that he
possesses. Jesus taught that we are stewards and that happi-
ness comes when we use our possessions to bring blessings to
others.
How did Jesus describe the man who thought he could stop
working and just enjoy his leisure? Luke 12:16-21.
"By the parable of the foolish rich man, Christ showed the
folly of those who make the world their all. This man had re-
ceived everything from God.... The Lord had caused vegetation
to flourish, and the fields to bring forth abundantly.... His barns
were full to overflowing, and he had no place to put the surplus
of his harvest. He did not think of God, from whom all his
mercies had come. He did not realize that God had made him a
steward of His goods that he might help the needy. He had a
blessed opportunity of being God's almoner, but he thought
only of ministering to his own comfort."—Christ's
Object Les-
sons,
p. 256.
What plan to prevent materialism and selfishness did God
establish with Israel? Ex. 23:10, 11.
How can the Christian show that he considers himself a
steward rather than the owner of properties placed in his
hand?
FURTHER STUDY
Christ's Object Lessons,
"Gain That Is Loss," pp. 252-259.
61
Trust in the Creator
LESSON 7
❑
Thursday
February 16
Part 5
Why should the Christian not be concerned about food and
HIS PROVISION drink?
OF LIFE'S
NECESSITIES
"Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or,
What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
(For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your
heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these
things" (Matt. 8:31, 32).
"Our Lord adapts Himself to our special needs. He is a shade
on our right hand. He walks close by our side, ready to supply all
our necessities. He comes very near to those who are engaged
in willing service for Him. He knows every one by name. 0 what
assurances we have of the tender love of Christ."—Ellen G.
White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
vol. 3, p. 1153.
How do I know that the Christian's lack of concern for food
and drink does not mean that he will eat anything and every-
thing? Gen. 2:16, 17; 9:3, 4; Leviticus 11.
It is only reasonable that he who designs a machine is the one
best qualified to know what is needed to operate and maintain
it. Our heavenly Father created us. Surely He will know what is
needed and will see that His creation is supplied with the neces-
sities for proper function and maintenance if we cooperate.
THINK IT THROUGH
If God knows that we need food and drink, why should we
pray, "Give us this day our daily bread"?
"It is a part of God's plan to grant us, in answer to the prayer of
faith, that which He would not bestow did we not thus ask."—
The Great Controversy,
p. 525.
"The first half of the prayer Jesus has taught us is in regard to
the name and kingdom and will of God—that His name may be
honored, His kingdom established, His will performed. When
you have thus made God's service your first interest, you may
ask with confidence that your own needs may be supplied. If you
have renounced self and given yourself to Christ you are a
member of the family of God, and everything in the Father's
house is for you. All the treasures of God are open to you, both
the world that now is and that which is to come. The ministry of
angels, the gift of His Spirit, the labors of His servants—all are
for
you."—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing,
p. 110.
FURTHER STUDY
Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing,
"The Lord's Prayer"
(Matt. 6:11), pp. 110, 111.
82
Trust in the Creator
LESSON 7
❑
Friday
February 17
Part 6
MAN'S FIRST
CONCERN
If we make God first in our lives, what can we expect?
"Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness;
and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore
no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought
for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil
thereof" (Matt. 6:33, 34).
It is very easy to be mixed up in our priorities, to place the
temporal over the eternal or the secular over the spiritual. That
which is closest at hand seems to occupy our time and atten-
tion. But we must look beyond the immediate, to the One who
has placed us here, and to the purpose for which we are alive.
There is a great controversy on, and we must do our part to
hasten God's kingdom. We must not settle down to the affairs of
this world as though we had an abiding city here. The Christian
can safely lean upon God to supply his needs even when he has
lost all in famine or disaster.
Why can we rest assured that God can back up His promise
to take care of our material needs if we place Him first? Ps.
50:10-12.
"The word of God has much to say in regard to sacrificing.
Riches are from the Lord and belong to Him. 'Both riches and
honor come of Thee.' The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine,
saith the Lord of hosts.' For every beast of the forest is Mine,
and the cattle upon a thousand hills.' The earth is the Lord's,
and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.'
It is the Lord thy God that giveth thee power to get wealth.
"Riches are in themselves transient and unsatisfying. We are
warned not to trust in uncertain riches. 'Riches certainly make
themselves wings; they fly away.' Lay not up for yourselves
treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and
where thieves break through and
steal."—Testimonies,
vol. 3, p.
549.
THINK IT THROUGH
How can I stop worrying about my situation and show trust
In my Creator's ability to provide my needs?
FURTHER STUDY
"Worry is blind, and cannot discern the future; but Jesus sees
the end from the beginning. In every difficulty He has His way
prepared to bring relief. Our heavenly Father has a thousand
ways to provide for us, of which we know nothing. Those who
accept the one principle of making the service and honor of God
supreme will find perplexities vanish, and a plain path before
their feet."—The
Desire of Ages,
p. 330.
Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing,
"The True Motive in
Service," (Matt. 6:33, 34), pp. 98, 99.
63
LESSON 8 February 19-25
The
Cmkor
and Recreakx
"A new heart also will I &ive you, and
a new spirit will I put within you: and I
will take away the stony heart out of
your flesh, and I will give you an heart
of flesh. And I will put my spirit within
you, and cause you to walk in my
statutes, and ye shall keep my
judgments, and do them" (Eze. 36:26,
27).
Conversion is often referred to as a
miracle of life. This is true because a
converted man is a man whose life is
given a whole new direction. There
can be no permanent work done in the
life of the sinner unless God's creative
power is allowed to work. Because
God is Creator, He has the ability to
make within the life the necessary
changes which we call conversion.
The nominal churches whose
members believe in evolution have
made God too small. They often do
not see Him as able to do the work
necessary to restore the spiritual
image of man. What the modern world
needs is a great God who has power to
transform the life.
Unless rebirth occurs, unless we are
born again, we cannot be saved. But
this is not just a one-time experience;
it is a daily occurrence.
"Consecrate yourself to God in the
morning; make this your very first
work. Let your prayer be, 'Take me, 0
Lord, as whollyThine. I lay all my plans
at Thy feet. Use me today in Thy
service. Abide with me, and let all my
work be wrought in.
Thee.' This is a
daily matter. Each morning consecrate
yourself to God for that day.
Surrender all your plans to Him, to be
carried out or given up as His
providence shall indicate. Thus day by
day you may be giving your life into the
hands of God, and thus your life will
be molded more and more after the
life of Christ."—Steps
to Christ,
p. 70.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
1. The Miracle of Conversion
(Eze. 36:26, 27)
2. The Necessity of Rebirth
(John
3:3-7)
3. The Work of the Spirit
(John 3:8)
4. Symbols of Creative Power
(John 4:14)
5. Victory Through Faith
(1 John 5:4)
6. The Danger of Pretense
(2 Tim. 3:1, 5)
The Creator and Re-creator
LESSON 8
❑
Sunday
February 19
Part 1
THE MIRACLE
OF CONVERSION
Because of sin, what creative work must God perform on the
repentant person?
"A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put
within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your
flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my
spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye
shall keep my Judgments, and do them" (Eze. 36:26, 27).
The miracle of conversion is a miracle of the heart, or more
accurately, of the mind. What does God do to the mind to create
new desires and aspirations? What kind of programming is
involved to change the controlling center of the body so that the
life is changed? Only the One who made us in the first place can
fully answer these questions.
We may not be able to explain conversion, but we cannot
deny that it has taken place either in our lives or in the lives of
others. There has been a complete change in direction.
Whereas we once loved to break the law, now we find ourselves
living in harmony with the law. Whereas at one time we were
concerned only with ourselves, now we find our thoughts and
affections going out to others. At one time we were in the
bondage of sin; now we find ourselves free to enjoy all that is
high and noble, pure and beautiful. All this is nothing short of a
miracle because it represents a change contrary to our fallen
nature.
How did the psalmist express his desire for re-creation? Ps.
51:10.
It is wonderful to think that a change of heart is only a prayer
away! Only the Creator can effect the changes in heart and mind
that are necessary; but we are assured that there is nothing the
Creator would rather do than to erase the effects of sin, remake
us in the image of God, and bring us back to the perfection in
which Adam was originally created.
THINK IT THROUGH
What changes took place in your life when you experienced
conversion?
"You have confessed your sins, and in heart put them away.
You have resolved to give yourself to God. Now go to Him, and
ask that He will wash away your sins and give you a new heart.
Then believe that He does this
because He has promised."—
Steps to Christ,
pp. 49, 50.
FURTHER STUDY
Christ's Object Lessons, "Like
Unto Leaven," pp. 98-102.
66
The Creator and Re-creator
LESSON 8
❑
Monday
February 20
Part 2
THE NECESSITY
OF REBIRTH
THINK IT THROUGH
FURTHER STUDY
What surprising message did Jesus give Nicodemus?
"Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto
thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom
of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born
when he Is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's
womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto
thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he
cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the
flesh is flesh; and that which Is born of the Spirit is spirit.
Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again" (John
3:3-7).
Nicodemus knew the meaning of being born again. What he
couldn't see was how it applied to him—a Jew of devotion and
of considerable age. But Jesus insists on the necessity of
Nicodemus' rebirth and points out that a life of rectitude, how-
ever noble (as was no doubt the case with Nicodemus himself),
was no substitute for a denial of man's righteousness and the
acceptance of the miracle of God's grace in the heart. Man
cannot enter the kingdom of heaven without being re-created,
renouncing the family of fallen man and entering into the family
of God.
Being "born of water" refers to the experience of baptism.
The old man of sin dies within us when we turn to Christ. (See
Rom. 6:3, 4.)
Being "born of the spirit" means that we no longer walk after
the dictates of the flesh, but after the mind of the Spirit. (See
Rom. 8:5-11.)
The conversation of Jesus with Nicodemus made two things
perfectly clear: (1) that a man cannot enter the kingdom merely
by being good; (2) that a man must accept and experience the
redeeming grace of God to enter the kingdom.
What is the mode of life after being born again? 1 John 3:9;
5:18.
The laws of genetics seem to work in the spiritual world as
effectively as they do in the natural. Just as a child takes after his
parents in build and appearance and habits of mind, so the child
of God, being born from above, develops the characteristics of
his heavenly Father. He is kind and loving; he keeps the com-
mandments. He no longer continues in the way of his
forefathers in the flesh, sinning and sinning again, because, he
has, as it were, a new set of genes.
What are the results of spiritual rebirth in my life?
The Desire of Ages,
pp. 168-177.
67
The Creator and Re-creator
LESSON 8
❑
Tuesday
February 21
Part 3
THE WORK OF
THE SPIRIT
THINK IT THROUGH
What illustration does Jesus use to show that the work of
the Holy Spirit is mysterious?
"The wind bloweth where It listeth, and thou hearest the
sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and
whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit"
(John 3:8).
Wind is a mighty power whose effect can be seen and felt, but
is itself invisible to the human eye. So is the work of the Spirit,
says Jesus. The Spirit comes and goes; it chooses its own time
and purpose, its own power and effect. Just as man cannot
control the wind, so he cannot begin to control the Spirit. He
must wait and see and hear, for it is God who takes the initiative.
The power of the Holy Spirit, we are told, is working for man's
salvation. It is possible to resist the Spirit, to grieve the Spirit,
and thus cause the Spirit to go away. Man has freedom to
choose what he will do in this regard. But when a man decides
to yield to the influences of God's Spirit, there comes into his life
a force and a power that is re-creative. He is a new creature: Old
things have passed away; everything becomes new. In this re-
birth there is an element of mystery that we cannot fathom.
With all the progress that science has made today, we still
stand in awe before the mystery of life. We have made tremen-
dous progress in analyzing the structure of every particle of life.
Our microscopes have revealed in great detail the smallest parts
of human anatomy. But still we cannot explain the mystery of
life. Unless the God who created us and put all things together
comes to explain things to us, we shall stand in ignorance,
admitting our failure, and bowing before God's omniscience. If
this is true in the physical realm, need it surprise us if the means
of the spiritual rebirth remains partially hidden?
What are the differences between physical birth and spiri-
tual rebirth?
"The old nature, born of blood and the will of the flesh, cannot
inherit the kingdom of God. The old ways, the hereditary ten-
dencies, the former habits, must be given up; for grace is not
inherited. The new birth consists in having new motives, new
tastes, new tendencies. Those who are begotten unto a new life
by the Holy Spirit, have become partakers of the divine nature,
and in all their habits and practices they will give evidence of
their relationship to Christ."—Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
vol. 6, p. 1101.
FURTHER STUDY
Steps to Christ,
"Growing Up Into Christ," pp. 67, 68.
68
The Creator and Re-creator
LESSON 8
❑
Wednesday
February 22
Part 4
How did Jesus contrast the water of a well with the water
SYMBOLS that He could give?
OF CREATIVE
POWER
"Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall
never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a
well of water springing up into everlasting life" (John 4:14).
Just as adequate water and food are necessary for this pres-
ent life, so provision has been made for the Christian to partake
of spiritual water and food. Three elements are presented in this
part of the lesson: (1) water, (2) bread, (3) fruits from the tree of
life.
It is interesting to note that man cannot do without water for
more than three days. He can last without food for many days,
but if his body is dehydrated he develops a fever and dies.
What did John the revelator say he saw in the New
Jerusalem? Rev. 22:1.
Water is a symbol of God's creative and sustaining power.
Even in the earth made new there is a river gushing from the
throne of God and of the Lamb, a symbol of man's dependence
upon God, and God's constant provision for man's needs.
What article of food did Jesus say He symbolized? John
6:35.
Bread used to be called the staff of life, but in our modern diet
it occupies a less important role than in the past. Nevertheless, a
loaf of whole wheat bread is very nutritious and satisfying.
What important tree exists in heaven? Rev. 22:2.
Fruit from the tree of life! Freshly gathered fruits are very
appealing. They are usually juicy, sweet, and appetizing. They
are easily digested and deliciously complement one's diet.
THINK IT THROUGH
How will immortality be sustained in the new earth?
FURTHER STUDY
"The fruit of the tree of life in the Garden of Eden possessed
supernatural virtue. To eat of it was to live forever. Its fruit was
the antidote of death. Its leaves were for the sustaining of life
and immortality. . . .
"After the entrance of sin, the heavenly Husbandman trans-
planted the tree of life to the Paradise above; but its branches
hang over the wall to the lower world. Through the redemption
purchased by the blood of Christ, we may still eat of its life-
giving fruit."—Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Com-
mentary, vol.
7, pp. 988, 989.
Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing,
"The Lord's Prayer,"
(Matt. 6:11), pp. 110-113.
69
The Creator and Re-creator
LESSON 8
❑
Thursday
February 23
Part 5
What victory is promised to him that is born of God?
VICTORY
THROUGH
"Whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this
FAITH is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith"
(1 John 5:4).
Faith is a relationship of trust. When we place our trust in God,
we can overcome the world, because He who is on our side is
greater than he that is against us. We need not fear what men
can do to us, because our lives are in God's hands.
"The only faith that will benefit us is that which embraces Him
as a personal Saviour; which appropriates His merits to our-
selves. Many hold faith as an opinion. Saving faith is a transac-
tion by which those who receive Christ join themselves in cov-
enant relation with God."—The
Desire of Ages,
p. 347.
How can we obtain this faith which leads to victory? 1 John
5:1, first part.
Faith is an attitude to Jesus; it is a belief that Jesus is the
Christ, the Son of the living God. (See Matt. 16:16). But this
insight is not the result of human intuition; it is evidence that
God has been at work in the life of the individual. (See Matt.
16:17.) Paul points out that the confession of Jesus as Lord and
Christ can come only through the influence of the Holy Spirit.
(See 1 Cor. 12:3.)
"When we seek to gain heaven through the merits of Christ,
the soul makes progress. Looking unto Jesus, the author and
finisher of our faith, we may go on from strength to strength,
from victory to victory; for through Christ the grace of God has
worked out our complete salvation."—Selected
Messages,
bk.
1, p. 364.
THINK IT THROUGH
How does belief In God and Jesus Christ affect the daily
life of the converted person?
When we come to know what Jesus has done for us; when we
believe and accept Him as our personal Saviour, we cannot help
but love Him. God's love for us creates a response of love. And
how do I know that I love Him? When I keep His commandments.
(See 1 John 5:3.)
"Faith in the word of God and in the power of Christ to
transform the life will enable the believer to work His works and
to live a life of rejoicing in the Lord.
"Again and again I have been instructed to say to our people:
Let your faith and trust be in
God."—Testimonies,
vol. 9, p. 279.
FURTHER STUDY
Gospel Workers,
pp. 259-261.
70
The Creator and Re-creator
LESSON 8
❑
Friday
February 24
Part 6
THE DANGER
OF PRETENSE
What characteristic of religious life will be apparent In the
last days, and what power will be denied?
"This know also, that In the last days perilous times shall
come."
"Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof:
from such turn away" (2 Tim. 3:1, 5).
It is very easy to maintain an outward display of religiosity.
Since people cannot always read our thoughts or feelings, we
can get away with the outward display and hope for the best. But
Scripture warns us that a form of godliness will not save; that in
the last days there will be many members of the church who will
pretend to be good, when in reality they are not. Are we at grips
with the reality, or are we deceived and deceiving by a show of
Christian piety?
In the last days there will be more than a spirit of hypocrisy
rampant. Some will deny that there is any other form of religious
experience possible. Many will suggest that the Christian is one
who pretends that certain doctrines are true, when in fact they
are not; that a consistent Christian experience is beyond the
capacity of the average church member so why try; that to
renounce the world in its entirety is fanaticism and must be
avoided. Many deny the existence of a power from God to
enable the believer to live above the world and in harmony with
God's law. From such teaching we are to turn away.
What happens when people turn away from the worship of
the true God? Ex. 32:7, 8.
"A religion that permits men, while observing the rites of
worship, to devote themselves to selfish or sensual gratifica-
tion, is as pleasing to the multitudes now as in the days of Israel.
And there are still pliant Aarons, who, while holding positions of
authority in the church, will yield to the desires of the unconse-
crated, and thus encourage them in
sin."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
p. 317.
THINK IT THROUGH
What do I do when I do not feel religious, when I feel I
would rather do something wrong?
The solution to a mood of Indifference in religious matters is
not found in pretense. We must go back to the Source of
spiritual life and ask to be recreated. Read Psalm 51:10. This is a
prayer that God will never refuse to answer.
There is no excuse for hypocrisy; nor is there any virtue in it.
Notice in Revelation 3:18 what God says is the solution to the
lukewarm Laodicean experience.
FURTHER STUDY
Early Writings,
pp. 273, 274.
71
LESSON 9 February 26 to March 4
The Ciedort
Lad Cali
"Saying with a loud voice, Fear God,
and
give glory to
him; for the hour of
hisjudgment is come: and worship
him that made heaven, and earth, and
the sea, and the fountains of waters"
(Rev. 14:7).
The developing interest in the topic
of Creation, seen in the controversies
over the teaching of Creation in public
schools and in the proliferation of
journals and societies devoted to the
study and promotion of Creation,
should be of great interest to
Seventh-day Adventists.
Two of the three messages
proclaimed by the angels in Revelation
14 have a very direct bearing upon the
topic of Creation and God as Creator.
Since it is our belief that the messages
of these three angels will constitute in
the time of the end an important and
widespread religious call to return to
the worship of God, we watch with
interest and satisfaction the present
fulfilling of the predictions concerning
the loud cry of these three messages.
Seventh-day Adventists understand
that the Sabbath, the day that is set
aside for the worship of God, will be
the central point of religious
controversy just before the second
coming of Christ. Since the Sabbath is
so intimately connected with the
Creation event, it is obvious that no
real issue concerning Saturday and
Sunday can develop or be resolved
without a renewed study of the
creative power of God as
demonstrated in the Creation of this
world.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
1.
The Caller
(Rev. 1:8, 18)
2.
Lines of Communication
(Rev. 1:1)
3.
Worship of the Creator
(Rev. 14:7)
4.
The Fall of Babylon
(Rev. 14:8)
5.
Beast, Image, and Mark
(Rev. 14:9, 10)
6.
The Secret of Victory
(Rev. 15:2-4)
The Creator's Last Call
LESSON 9
❑
Sunday
February 26
Part 1
THE CALLER
THINK IT THROUGH
How does the Lord describe Himself to John the Revelator?
"I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith
the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the
Almighty."
"I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive
for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death"
(Rev. 1:8, 18).
The authority behind the revelations given to John is God
Himself (Rev. 1:1). But we cannot think of God without refer-
ence to Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. In other words, the
three Persons of the Godhead are involved in communicating
with the church through the apostle and prophet.
The description of the Lord is impressive and comprehensive.
The use of the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet (Alpha
and Omega) indicates to Greek readers the entirety of a thing;
there is nothing beyond, before, or after. In other words, God is
the Lord of all history, and from the time it began to the time that
it shall end, and all the period in between.
In the days of John such an affirmation would come with
telling force because of the political powers that were opposing
the church. In our own day, when so many voices clamor for
attention, it is important to note that there is one voice that must
be heard above all others, the voice of God Himself.
What other terms are used to describe the Source of infor-
mation and warning to man? Rev. 3:14.
The Amen:
This term from the Hebrew suggests truthfulness
and faithfulness (see Isa. 65:16, where the "God of truth" is in
the Hebrew, the God of Amen). Christians use this word at the
end of a prayer, or the close of an assertion, to indicate approval
or finality. In this context the meaning seems to be that Jesus
places His seal of finality on the purposes of God; that He is their
guarantor and executor. Contrast the fickleness of man and the
faithlessness of the Laodicean church.
The beginning of the creation of God:
This refers to Jesus as
the Source of Creation; the One who brought all things into
being. (See John 1:3.)
In the light of the source of the warnings that come In the
book of Revelation, what reasons would you give for paying
careful attention?
FURTHER STUDY
The Acts of the Apostles,
pp. 581-584.
74
The Creator's Last Call
LESSON 9
❑
Monday
February 27
Part 2
What was the chain of communication through which the
LINES OF truth of revelation came to man?
COMMUNICATION
"The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him,
to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to
pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant
John" (Rev. 1:1).
We cannot always understand how God works, so that the
poet says, "God moves in a mysterious way His wonders to
perform."—William Cowper. But we may be sure that God's
ways are best. He chooses to make His revelations through
Jesus Christ to an angel, who transmits it to John, and then John
writes it for the churches. Thus we have a line of communication
that is best suited to accomplish God's purposes.
In this hierarchy of descent we see an orderliness that is
characteristic of God. He is not only authoritative in Himself, but
His methods are right and proper. If we should listen when God
speaks, we ought to enter into His plans when He communi-
cates them to us.
In what way do the angels now inhabiting heaven show and
express their loyalty to their leader? Rev. 7:11, 12.
In human communication a message may be garbled as it
passes from mouth to mouth. But with the angels this possibility
does not exist; the angels are too conscious of the glory of God
to do anything other than the exact bidding of their Lord. Appar-
ently they are aware of, and enter into, the plans and purposes
of God, so that they cannot help but worship Him and ascribe to
Him the qualities of majesty they can see.
If men were also a part of God's line of communication they,
too, would be faithful in their responsibilities and glorifying in
their responses. This is the ideal toward which we should strive.
What significant message or warning is given by the first
angel of Revelation 14? (See verse 6.)
The reference to the "hour of his judgment" indicates the
time and importance of the message.
THINK IT THROUGH
What responsibilities do I have. as one who receives a
message from God? How should I respond to the message?
FURTHER STUDY
Early Writings,
pp. 230, 231.
75
The Creator's Last Call
LESSON 9
❑
Tuesday
February 28
Part 3
WORSHIP OF
THE CREATOR
What is the key thought in the first angel's message?
"Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him;
for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that
made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of
waters" (Rev. 14:7).
There is a worldwide need for such a message. Here are some
of the conditions that may exist:
(1)
People no longer fear and reverence God. Their minds are
set on other things. Can you give some examples?
(2)
People may recognize God, but they do not give Him the
glory for all the benefits they enjoy. Can you give examples of
how men credit science or their own achievements for bless-
ings of life that come from the hand of God?
(3)
They do not accept God as the Creator, the origin and
source of all being. How does the theory of evolution undermine
the concept of God as Creator?
"The message itself sheds light as to the time when this
movement is to take place. It is declared to be a part of the
'everlasting gospel;' and it announces the opening of the judg-
ment. The message of salvation has been preached in all ages;
but this message is a part of the gospel which could be pro-
claimed only in the last days, for only then would it be true that
the hour of judgment
had come."—The Great Controversy,
pp.
355, 356.
"In the beginning, God was revealed in all the works of crea-
tion. It was Christ that spread the heavens, and laid the founda-
tions of the earth. It was His hand that hung the world in space,
and fashioned the flowers of the field. 'His strength setteth fast
the mountains.' The sea is His, and He made it.' Ps. 65:6; 95:5. It
was He that filled the earth with beauty, and the air with song.
And upon all things in earth, and air, and sky, He wrote the
message of the Father's love."—The
Desire of Ages,
p. 20.
What is the relationship of
the
fourth commandment to the
message of the first angel? Ex. 20:8-11.
In the 1830s and 1840s when this message was first pro-
claimed, evolution was not an issue. Almost everyone believed
that God was Creator. Charles Darwin's book,
Origin of the
Species,
was published in 1859. The call to worship the Creator
is very relevant for our day when a majority of people believe in
the theory of evolution.
Why is the concept of Creation more acceptable than the
theory of evolution?
The Great Controversy,
pp. 436-438.
THINK IT THROUGH
FURTHER STUDY
76
The Creator's Last Call
LESSON 9
❑
Wednesday
March 1
Part 4
What message did the second angel give?
THE FALL OF
BABYLON
"And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is
fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations
drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication" (Rev. 14:8).
"The term 'Babylon' is derived from 'Babel,' and signifies
confusion."—The
Great Controversy,
p. 381.
Only in the Bible, rightly interpreted and understood, do we
have a logical ground of knowledge. We know of the origin of
evil and the controversy that is going on between good and evil,
Christ and Satan. As soon as we turn to another source of
information, we become confused and lost.
Babylon represents all those organizations which oppose
God's plans and purposes. Often in the past God's purposes
seem to have been thwarted. The entrance of sin, the increase of
sin in the days of Noah, the apostasy of God's people culminat-
ing in the rejection of Christ. Even in the last days there will be
movements and organizations which will seek to defeat God's
plan for man's salvation. But God's warning message is that
Babylon is fallen. It is important for all people everywhere to link
up with God's everlasting gospel, and to shun any association
that will mean their utter destruction when truth finally gains the
victory over evil.
"The warnings of the word of God regarding the perils sur-
rounding the Christian church belong to us today. As in the days
of the apostles men tried by tradition and philosophy to destroy
faith in the Scriptures, so today, by the pleasing sentiments of
higher criticism, evolution, spiritualism, theosophy, and pan-
theism, the enemy of righteousness is seeking to lead souls into
forbidden paths. To many the Bible is as a lamp without oil,
because they have turned their minds into channels of specula-
tive belief that bring misunderstanding and confusion. The
work of higher criticism, in dissecting, conjecturing, recon-
structing, is destroying faith in the Bible as a divine
revelation."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
p. 474.
THINK IT THROUGH
How does one combat error in philosophy or religion?
FURTHER STUDY
Early Writings,
pp. 237-240.
77
The Creator's Last Call
LESSON 9
❑
Thursday
March 2
Part 5
BEAST, IMAGE,
AND MARK
What happens to those who receive the mark of the beast in
hand or forehead?
"And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud
voice, if any man worship the beast and his image, and
re-
ceive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall
drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out
without mixture into the cup of his indignation" (Rev. 14:9,10).
The beast is mentioned in Revelation 13:1 and is described as
having "the name of blasphemy" on its seven heads. This im-
mediately characterizes it as taking God's place. The image is
mentioned in Revelation 13:14 and is described as demanding
worship (verse 15), which places it in the same category as
anti-God. The mark is obviously a sign given to an adherent so
that he may be distinguished from those who do not have the
mark. God's warning message is that any or all who engage in
activity that is opposed to God will suffer dire consequences,
described as drinking the wine of God's wrath.
By contrast to the "mark of the beast," what Is the observ-
ance of the seventh-day Sabbath called? Ex. 31:13, 16, 17.
"Thus the distinction is drawn between the loyal and the
disloyal. Those who desire to have the seal of God in their
foreheads must keep the Sabbath of the fourth commandment.
Thus they are distinguished from the disloyal, who have ac-
cepted a man-made institution in place of the true Sabbath."—
Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary, vol.
7, p.
981.
"To give glory to God is to reveal His character in our own,
and thus make Him known. And in whatever way we make
known the Father or the Son, we glorify God."—Ellen G. White
Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary, vol.
7, p. 979.
THINK IT THROUGH
Why is the keeping of the Sabbath so important in these last
days? When and how does one receive the mark of the beast?
"The substitution of the false for the true is the last act in the
drama. When this substitution becomes universal, God will re-
veal Himself. When the laws of men are exalted above the laws
of God, when the powers of this earth try to force men to keep
the first day of the week, know that the time has come for God to
work."—Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
vol.
7, p. 980.
FURTHER STUDY
The Great Controversy,
pp. 449, 450.
78
The Creator's Last Call
LESSON 9
❑
Friday
March 3
Part 6
THE SECRET
OF VICTORY
What will be the outcome for those who, in the face of
persecution, worship God on the day that commemorates His
creative work?
"I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them
that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image,
and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on
the sea of glass, having the harps of God. And they sing the
song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb,
saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Al-
mighty; Just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. Who
shall not fear thee, 0 Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only
art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee;
for thy judgments are made manifest" (Rev. 15: 2-4).
It is not easy to keep the Sabbath in certain situations. Often it
involves persecution, loss of property, and being despised by
peers and fellow citizens. But some will not be kept from doing
right whatever the consequences, and one day they will find
themselves honored for their stand.
The song of Moses and the song of the Lamb are songs of
deliverance. Moses brought deliverance from the bondage of
Egypt. The Lamb (our Lord) brings escape from the bondage of
sin. Sometimes it looks as though evil will overcome the good,
but God's works are "great and marvellous," His ways are " just
and true." Those who are dedicated to God for accomplishing
His will soon find that God's truth always triumphs and they
triumph with it. The universe will come to acknowledge the
goodness of God.
What is the relationship to God of those who overcome?
Rev. 21:7.
The redeemed will worship God throughout eternity. They will
be forever grateful because they have been snatched as brands
from the burning. They recognize God's unlimited generosity
because they are being treated as sons, with love and respect.
What more could they ask for? Furthermore, they have inherited
"all things." There is a close tie of common interest. They are
members of a family where there is peace and harmony. They
work together and eat together and associate together in an
environment that is unbelievably beautiful. After years of strug-
gle and strife, they are now in a permanent home where there
will be no more the sorrow of parting.
THINK IT THROUGH
Why is it good sometimes to dwell on the rewards of the
righteous?
FURTHER STUDY
The Great Controversy,
pp. 650-652.
79
LESSON 10 March 5-11
"Therefore doth my Father love me,
because I lay down my life, that I might
-- —take it-again.-. No- man-taketh it from
me, but I lay it down of myself. I have
power to lay it down, and I have power
to take it again. This commandment
'have I received of my Father" (John
10:17, 18).
Man cannot define what life is. He
can see the difference between a living
and a dead organism. He knows what
happens to a Toyed one when life
departs, but he does not really know
what life is except as he studies God's
Word and reads that life is the breath
of God. (See. Gen. 2:7.)
How Jesus was able to lay down His
life and take it up again, as He claimed,
is a mystery we cannot understand. It
must be related to His divinity and is
one evidence that Jesus qualifies for
worship as God. We also do not
understand why there needed to be
-
an
unnatural darkness and an earthquake
at the time of the crucifixion (Matt.
27:45, 51). One thing seems certain,
that the powers of thelearth are
affected by God's presence and all
nature is subject to His will and
direction.
When an individual goes to sleep,
we expect him to awaken again. Such a
state of unconsciousness is normal
and does not give us concerri,When a
Christian dies in the Lord, he also will -
awaken again. In this sense Jesus
referred to the death of His believers
as sleep. We who believe also should
not allow death to cause us great
concern, for it is but a temporary state
of unconsciousness. Jesus was
"asleep" over the weekend, but He
arose Sunday morning. Because of this
great event we too have the hope and
the comfort of knowing that our death
will be only a temporary sleep and that
we shall arise in the glorious dawn of a
new morning.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
1.
The Source of Life
(John 11:43, 44)
2.
God's Plan Unfolded
(1 Peter 1:20)
3.
The Response of Nature
(Matt. 27:45)
4.
Dying and Rising Again
(John 12:24)
5.
The Power to Renew Life
(John 10:17, 18)
6.
Our Only Hope
(1 Cor. 15:17-19)
Creator and Life-giver
LESSON 10
❑
Sunday
March 5
Part 1
THE SOURCE
OF LIFE
THINK IT THROUGH
What great miracle illustrated Jesus' ability to give life?
"When he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice,
Lazarus, come forth. And he that was dead came forth, bound
hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound
about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let
him go" (John 11:43, 44).
Popular journals sometimes carry stories that purport to sus-
tain a belief that the dead are now alive. But the Bible teaches
that the dead will live again only by the resurrection. All claims
that the dead are now living are deceptions.
How did the scribes and Pharisees admit that Jesus had
performed many miracles? John 11:47.
Probably no other miracle Jesus performed was so spectacu-
lar as this one. There was no way to deny that Jesus had indeed
raised Lazarus from the dead; even the scribes and Pharisees
admitted it. This miracle demonstrated that Jesus had the
power that he claimed to be the resurrection and the life (John
11:25).
How did Caiaphas unwittingly acknowledge Jesus' saving
power? John 11:50-53.
"In declaring that one man should die for the nation,
Caiaphas indicated that he had some knowledge of the
prophecies, although it was very limited. But John, in his ac-
count of this scene, takes up the prophecy, and shows its broad
and deep significance. He says, 'And not for that nation only, but
that also He should gather together in one the children of God
that were scattered abroad.' How blindly did the haughty
Caiaphas acknowledge the Saviour's mission!"—The
Desire of
Ages,
p. 540.
What is the significance to you and me that Jesus was able
to raise Lazarus from the dead? In rejecting Jesus as the
Messiah, what were the scribes and Pharisees actually reject-
ing?
"We
may refuse the invitations that Christ sends to us; we may
neglect His offer of pardon and peace; but still it remains a fact
that every one of us has been bought with a price, even with the
precious blood of the Son of God. Therefore, 'Consider him'
(Heb.
12:3)."—Selected Messages,
bk. 1, p. 100.
FURTHER STUDY
The Desire of Ages,
pp. 530, 536.
82
Creator and Life-giver
LESSON 10
❑
Monday
March 6
Part 2
How does Peter reveal that provision was made for the
GOD'S PLAN salvation of man (in case
he
fell) even before the foundation of
UNFOLDED the world?
"He was destined before the foundation of the world but
was made manifest at the end of the times for your sake"
(1 Peter 1:20, RSV).
God is not caught unawares. He foresaw sin.
"The plan of salvation had its place in the counsels of the
Infinite from all eternity. The gospel is the revelation of God's
love to men, and means everything that is essential to the hap-
piness and well-being of humanity. The work of God in the earth
is of immeasurable importance, and it is Satan's special object
to crowd it out of sight and mind, that he may make his specious
devices effectual in the destruction of those for whom Christ
died. It is his purpose to cause the discoveries of men to be
exalted above the wisdom of
God."—Fundamentals of Chris-
tian Education,
p. 186.
When was God's plan first made known to man? Gen. 3:15.
"The central theme of the Bible, the theme about which every
other in the whole book clusters, is the redemption plan, the
restoration in the human soul of the image of God. From the first
intimation of hope in the sentence pronounced in Eden to that
last glorious promise of the Revelation, 'They shall see His face;
and His name shall be in their foreheads' (Revelation 22:4), the
burden of every book and every passage of the Bible is the
unfolding of this wondrous theme,—man's uplifting,—the
power of God... .
"He who grasps this thought has before him an infinite field
for study. He has the key that will unlock to him the whole
treasure house of God's word.
"The science of redemption is the science of all sciences; ...
the science that enters into the purpose brooded in the mind of
the Infinite—'kept in silence through times eternal' (Romans
16:25, R.V.); the science that will be the study of God's re-
deemed throughout endless
ages."—Education,
pp. 125, 126.
Why only could Jesus rather than an angel meet the death
penalty of sin? John 5:26.
THINK IT THROUGH
is it easier for me to look back to the empty tomb and be-
lieve than for the patriarchs to look forward by faith?
FURTHER STUDY
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pp. 63, 64.
83
Creator and Life-giver
LESSON 10
❑
Tuesday
March 7
Part 3
THE RESPONSE
OF NATURE
What phenomenon of nature expressed the anguish of
Jesus on the cross?
"Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the
land unto the ninth hour" (Matt. 27:45).
"The darkness upon the face of nature expressed her sym-
pathy with Christ in His expiring agony.... It was a miraculous
testimony given of God, that the faith of after generations might
be confirmed... .
" ... Nature could not witness such a scene as Christ dying in
agony while bearing the penalty of man's transgression. God
and the angels clothed themselves with darkness, and hid the
Saviour from the gaze of the curious multitude while He drank
the last dregs of the cup of God's wrath."—Ellen G. White
Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
vol. 5, p. 1108.
What other phenomenon typified the tremendous event
taking place with the death of Jesus? Matt. 27:51.
The shaking of the earth, the splitting of the rocks, must have
convinced every onlooker that the person on the cross was no
ordinary man; His death was no ordinary event. The Roman
centurion recognized it (Luke 23:47). Is it not surprising that
God's own people should be deaf to the voice of nature at this
time? All they could be concerned about was their personal
safety.
" 'Truly this was the Son of God.' Many who had scoffed and
jeered at, and taunted the Son of God were terribly afraid that
the shaking earth, the rent and trembling rocks would put an
end to their own lives. They hastened away from the scene,
beating upon their breasts, stumbling, falling, in awful terror
lest the earth should open and swallow them up."—Ellen G.
White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
vol. 5, p. 1108.
During what event that occurred two days later did the earth
quake again? Matt. 28:2.
THINK IT THROUGH
How does God use events in nature to speak to His people?
What physical signs can warn us of the second advent?
"The signs of the times are ominous. Coming events cast their
shadows before. The Spirit of God is withdrawing from the
earth, and calamity follows calamity by sea and by land. There
are tempests, earthquakes, fires, floods, murders of every
grade. Who can read the future? Where is security?"—The
Desire of Ages,
p. 636.
FURTHER STUDY
The Desire of Ages,
pp. 756, 757.
84
Creator and Life-giver
LESSON 10
❑
Wednesday
March 8
Part 4
What principle of nature did Jesus point out to His disci-
DYING AND pies?
RISING AGAIN
THINK IT THROUGH
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into
the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth
forth much fruit" (John 12:24).
What did Jesus predict would happen after He was slain?
Luke 9:22.
Jesus told the disciples what was going to happen to Him.
They no doubt listened politely, but they did not really under-
stand because they were obsessed with hopes for personal gain
in a tem poral kingdom. Can it be that we today are so concerned
with material goods that we also do not understand what Jesus
is saying to us even though we pretend to listen?
"Before His crucifixion the Saviour explained to His disciples
that He was to be put to death and to rise again from the tomb,
and angels were present to impress His words on minds and
hearts. But the disciples were looking for temporal deliverance
from the Roman yoke, and they could not tolerate the thought
that He in whom all their hopes centered should suffer an
ignominious death."—The
Great Controversy,
p. 594.
Death need not be the end of all things. The seed that is
placed in the ground ends its life as a seed, but it develops a root
and a stem that is to produce a plant after the order of the seed
itself, and this plant will produce many more seeds, some of
which will be used as food, and some will be used as seed for the
next harvest.
How does Paul describe the change that takes place at the
resurrection by means of the illustration of the seed? 1 Cor.
15:36-38.
When can death be a tragedy, and when can it be the gate-
way to an even greater life? Why is the resurrection so im-
portant for us? 1 Thess. 4:14.
"In the prophecies the future is opened before us as plainly as
it was opened to the disciples by the words of Christ. The events
connected with the close of probation and the work of prepara-
tion for the time of trouble, are clearly presented. But multitudes
have no more understanding of these important truths than if
they had never been revealed. Satan watches to catch away
every impression that would make them wise unto salvation,
and the time of trouble will find them unready."—The
Great
Controversy,
p. 594.
FURTHER STUDY
Early Writings,
pp. 181, 182.
85
Creator and Life-giver
LESSON 10
❑
Thursday
March 9
Part 5
POWER TO
RENEW LIFE
How did Jesus say He would rise from the dead?
"Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my
life, that I might take It again. No man taketh it from me, but I
lay it down of myself. I have power to lay It down, and I have
power to take It again. This commandment have I received of
my Father" (John 10:17, 18).
Jesus makes it clear that He laid down His life of His own
volition; no one seized it from Him. Judas betrayed Him; the
Jewish leaders rejected Him; the Roman soldiers crucified Him.
But in the strictest sense they did not take His life; He gave it up.
He died of a broken heart. This aspect of Jesus is important to
note because it points up where the power is. God is not subject
to the whims and fancies of this creation. He is the Sovereign
Ruler, and everything is in His control.
Why is the resurrection of Jesus so Important to the Chris-
tian? 1 Cor. 15:12-19.
The resurrection of Jesus means that the resurrection of the
saints is a certainty. It means that death is no longer a tragedy to
those who die in the Lord, but it may even be a blessing. (See
Rev. 14:13.) It means that those who mourn need not do so as
those who have no hope; they know that death is sleep and the
morning comes when loved ones will come to life and live
happily evermore. It also means that the concept that a person
goes to heaven or hell when he dies is wholly unscriptural.
THINK IT THROUGH
What does the power of the resurrection tell us about the
nature of Jesus? What Is His plan for humanity?
"All created beings live by the will and power of God. They are
recipients of the life of the Son of God. However able and
talented, however large their capacities, they are replenished
with life from the Source of all life. He is the spring, the fountain,
of life. Only He who alone hath immortality, dwelling in light and
life, should say, 'I have power to lay it [my life] down, and I have
power to take it again' (John 10:18). . . .
"Christ was invested with the right to give immortality. The life
which He had laid down in humanity, He again took up and gave
to humanity."—Selected
Messages,
bk. 1, pp. 301, 302.
FURTHER STUDY
Selected Messages,
bk. 1, pp. 301-303.
86
Creator and Life-giver
LESSON 10
❑
Friday
March 10
Part 6
What would be our prospects if Christ had not risen?
OUR ONLY
HOPE
"If Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your
sins.... If in this life only we have hope in Christ we are of all
men most miserable" (1 Cor. 15:17-19).
The expression, "ye are yet in your sins" points out the
hopelessness of man if Christ is not raised; it is not merely a
dark future that he faces, but a dismal present. Man in the
bondage of sin longs for release, a release that can be his only
when the Creator becomes also his Redeemer.
"The resurrection of Jesus was a type of the final resurrection
of all who sleep in Him. The countenance of the risen Saviour,
His manner, His speech, were all familiar to His disciples. As
Jesus arose from the dead, so those who sleep in Him are to rise
again. We shall know our friends, even as the disciples knew
Jesus. They may have been deformed, diseased, or disfigured,
in this mortal life, and they rise in perfect health and symmetry;
yet in the glorified body their identity will be perfectly preserved.
Then shall we know even as also we are known. 1 Cor. 13:12. In
the face radiant with the light shining from the face of Jesus, we
shall recognize the lineaments of those we love."—The
Desire
of Ages,
p. 804.
When Christ came forth victorious over death, what unusual
occurrence portended a great future event? Matt. 27: 52, 53.
It is interesting to note that inanimate creation responds in
kind to the mighty events taking place in the realm• of the
spiritual. Jesus triumphs over the grave, and all nature shakes
with the tremendous implications of that stupendous event.
Fear must have gripped the hearts of men and women as they
felt the earth shake and saw men and women come out of their
tombs. Yet how few related these physical manifestations to the
power of God that was working out man's salvation.
THINK IT THROUGH
If I should die before Jesus comes, what would make pos-
sible my arising in the first resurrection?
FURTHER STUDY
The Acts of the Apostles,
pp. 319-321.
87
eft!hiscorruplible shall have
utio9
r
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DAILY HIGHLIGHTS'
1.
The Mystery of:Resurrection'
(1 Cor..15:51, 52)
2.
The Dead Come to Life
(John''5:28,,23) . •
3.
Translation ofthe Living,
(1 Thess. C17)
4.
From Corruption to Incorruption
(1 Cor. 15:53)
5.
From Mortality to Immortality
' (1 Cora 15:54)
6.
Victory Over Death
(1 Cor. 15:54-57)
The Creator and the Resurrection
LESSON 11
❑
Sunday
March 12
Part 1
What mystery did the apostle Paul say he would show to the
THE MYSTERY OF Corinthians?
RESURRECTION
"Behold, I chew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we
shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at
the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall
be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed" (1 Cor.
15:51, 52).
The word "mystery" as used here by Paul is not something
hidden which cannot be known. It is a divine secret which is
revealed to the believer. Paul had revealed to him a matter
which was not known by the general public, but which was now
to be revealed, namely, the raising of people from the dead.
We do not know how God will accomplish the physical
changes necessary to bring the living righteous to perfection
when He comes, even as we do not know how He created Adam
or how He will raise to life again those long dead. But the
sureness of the promise and the reality of the change are not
dependent upon our understanding of the process.
"His [God's] creative power is as incomprehensible as His
existence."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
p. 113.
How is the great mysterious process of creation described
In Psalms? Ps. 104:24, 30.
"The greatest minds, if not guided by the word of God in their
research, become bewildered in their attempts to trace the
relations of science and revelation. Because the Creator and His
works are so far beyond their comprehension that they are
unable to explain them by natural laws, they regard Bible history
as unreliable. Those who doubt the reliability of the records of
the Old and New Testaments, will be led to go a step further, and
doubt the existence of God; and then, having lost their anchor,
they are left to beat about upon the rocks of infidelity."—
Patriarchs and Prophets,
p. 113.
THINK IT THROUGH
Describe the changes that will take place at the resurrection
and show how they are physical and spiritual.
"When the voice of God awakes the dead, he will come from
the grave with the same appetites and passions, the same likes
and dislikes, that he cherished when living. God works no mira-
cle to re-create a man who would not be re-created when he was
granted every opportunity and provided with every facility. Dur-
ing his lifetime he took no delight in God, nor found pleasure in
His service. His character is not in harmony with God, and he
could not be happy in the heavenly
family."-Christ's Object
Lessons,
p. 270.
FURTHER STUDY
Testimonies,
vol. 5, pp. 698-700.
90
The Creator and the Resurrection
LESSON 11
❑
Monday
March 13
Part 2
What great demonstration of God's creative power is yet to
THE DEAD occur?
COME TO LIFE
"Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, In the which all
that are in the graves shall hear his voice, and shall come
forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life;
and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damna-
tion" (John 5:28, 29).
What additional unique power will God use on righteous
dead that He will not do for the wicked dead? 1 Cor. 15:49.
A new type of body is needed for the new conditions under
which the redeemed shall live. Identity is not lost, but the sub-
stance of the body will be changed.
"Our personal identity is preserved in the resurrection,
though not the same particles of matter or material substance
as went into the grave. The wondrous works of God are a
mystery to man. The spirit, the character of man, is returned to
God, there to be preserved. In the resurrection every man will
have his own character. God in His own time will call forth the
dead, giving again the breath of life, and bidding the dry bones
live. The same form will come forth, but it will be free from
disease and every defect. It lives again bearing the same indi-
viduality of features, so that friend will recognize friend. There is
po law of God in nature which shows that God gives back the
same identical particles of matter which composed the body
before death. God shall give the righteous dead a body that will
please Him."—Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Com-
mentary,
vol. 6, p. 1093.
Through His power, God will bring to life each dead saint. The
product will be perfect but still readily recognizable by relatives
and friends. The brain will be purified from all impure thoughts
and memories and the beauty of holy thoughts will be present
and active.
THINK IT THROUGH
Show how the changes In the material substance of the
body do not affect a person's identity.
Even in this present life the body undergoes continual
change. Yet the "I" is the same. This may be a mystery of life, but
it helps us to understand that the changes necessary in the
resurrection do not affect one's identity.
The first thought of the resurrected person is one of victory.
He recognizes that he was dead but is alive again. The sting and
pain of death are gone forever.
FURTHER STUDY
The Great Controversy,
pp. 644, 645.
91
The Creator and the Resurrection
LESSON 11
❑
Tuesday
March 14
Part 3
What great experience awaits the righteous living when
TRANSLATION Jesus comes the second time?
OF THE LIVING
"Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up
together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air:
and so shall we ever be with the Lord" (1 Thess. 4:17).
Not everyone will taste of death before the second advent.
Some will be alive to witness the coming of Jesus, and they will
have the experience of translation rather than resurrection.
"It was as a representative of those who shall be thus trans-
lated that Elijah, near the close of Christ's earthly ministry, was
permitted to stand with Moses by the side of the Saviour on the
mount of transfiguration [Matt. 17:1-8j. In these glorified ones,
the disciples saw in miniature a representation of the kingdom
of the redeemed. They beheld Jesus clothed with the light of
heaven... ; and there also stood Elijah, representing those who
at the close of earth's history will be changed from mortal to
immortal and be translated to heaven without seeing
death."—Prophets and Kings,
p. 227.
The change that takes place at translation cannot be under-
stood any easier than the miracle of raising a person from the
dead. Earthly beings adapted to life in this world will be enabled
to transfer to another world, remain for 1000 years, and return.
God uses His creative power to make this possible.
What miracle of healing in the past can give us an insight
into the marvel of translation? Matt. 9:2-8.
"It required nothing less than creative power to restore health
to that decaying body. The same voice that spoke life to man
created from the dust of the earth had spoken life to the dying
paralytic. And the same power that gave life to the body had
renewed the heart. He who at the creation 'spake, and it was,'
who 'commanded, and it stood fast' (Ps. 33:9), had spoken life
to the soul dead in trespasses and sins. The healing of the body
was an evidence of the power that had renewed the heart. Christ
bade the paralytic arise and walk, 'that ye may know,' He said,
'that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins.' "
—The Desire of Ages,
pp. 269, 270.
THINK IT THROUGH
Show how we do not have to wait for translation before we
experience a transformation of life.
FURTHER STUDY
The Desire of Ages,
pp. 268-271.
92
The Creator and the Resurrection
LESSON 11
❑
Wednesday
March 15
Part 4
What complete transformation takes place at the resurrec-
FROM CORRUPTION tion?
TO INCORRUPTION
"For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mor-
tal must put on immortality" (1 Cor. 15:53).
The perishable must become imperishable. But in the pro-
cess there is no change in identity. This thought is expressed by
the verb "put on," which is closely linked with the idea of
clothing. The individual accepts a change which is to his advan-
tage, but he has not ceased to exist in the process. On the
contrary, he has become more fitted for the new estate.
It is very difficult to realize in detail the changes that take
place when mortal puts on immortality. We are so used to the
process of dying, which begins even the moment we are born,
that we cannot visualize what is going to happen. But we are so
anxious for the change to take place that we are willing to
ignore the process and snatch at the result.
What will be the end product of the change? Phil. 3:21.
"Our vile body" IS contrasted with the "glorious body" of
Jesus Christ. "Vile" is rather a harsh term to use in this connec-
tion (compare RSV, "lowly body"). The meaning is that our
bodies now are subject to the frailties of human flesh, such as a
proclivity to sin, to disease, to painful experiences, and to a
depressing sense of limitation. All this is exchanged for a
"glorious body," one that gives joy and pride, that lives up to all
the expectations of the Spirit.
THINK IT THROUGH
What will it mean to me to have a body like Jesus has?
"Restored to the tree of life in the long-lost Eden, the re-
deemed will 'grow up' (Malachi 4:2) to the full stature of the race
in its primeval glory. The last lingering traces of the curse of sin
will be removed, and Christ's faithful ones will appear 'in the
beauty of the Lord our God,' in mind and soul and body reflect-
ing the perfect image of their Lord."—The
Great Controversy,
p.
645.
FURTHER STUDY
The Great Controversy,
pp. 644-647.
93
The Creator and the Resurrection
LESSON 11
❑
Thursday
March 16
Part 5
in addition to the change discussed in part 4, what further
FROM MORTALITY change will occur to the bodies of the saints at Christ's corn-
TO IMMORTALITY ing?
"So when this corruptible shall have put on Incorruption,
and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be
brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed
up in victory" (1 Cor. 15:54).
God never intended that anything should die. It is sin that
brought death. God is the author of life and it is His purpose that
everything shall reflect His glory throughout eternity. God's
avowed purpose, ever since sin entered into the universe, is that
sin shall be known for the destructive force that it is, and then be
forever rejected. The resurrection is the time when God begins
to make all things new.
" 'I am the resurrection, and the life.' [John 11:25]. This lan-
guage can be used only by the Deity. All created things live by
the will and power of God. They are dependent recipients of the
life of the Son of God.... All the human beings in our world take
their life from Him. He is the spring, the fountain of life."—Ellen
G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
vol. 5, p. 1113.
What did Christ abolish that made immortality possible?
2 Tim. 1:10.
By wiping out the sin of which man was guilty, Christ
abolished the death to which man was subject because of sin. In
this way man is enabled to enjoy eternal life that can know no
death.
"No one less holy than the Only Begotten of the Father, could
have offered a sacrifice that would be efficacious to cleanse
all—even the most sinful and degraded—who accept the
Saviour as their atonement and become obedient to Heaven's
law. Nothing less could have reinstated man in God's favor."
—Selected Messages,
bk. 1, p. 309.
What event in Christ's life assures resurrection to immortal
life? 1 Cor. 15:16, 18, 20.
THINK IT THROUGH
Note these four possibilities. What are the advantages and
disadvantages of each?
(1)
An imperfect body and mortality.
(2)
Eternal life with an imperfect body.
(3)
A perfect body with mortality.
(4)
Eternal life with a perfect body.
FURTHER STUDY
Selected Messages,
bk. 1, pp. 296-300.
94
The Creator and the Resurrection
LESSON 11
❑
Friday
March 17
Part 6
VICTORY
OVER DEATH
What will be the greatest of all victories?
"Death is swallowed up in victory. 0 death, where is thy
sting? 0 grave, where is thy victory? ... But thanks be to God,
which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ"
(1 Cor. 15:54-57).
Death is personified here as an enemy that will finally be
defeated. Sin is the sting which causes human death. The vic-
tory that overcame sin did away with death.
There are two kinds of death, one is irrevocable and eternal;
the other is temporary and is frequently referred to in the Bible
as sleep. Most of the redeemed will have experienced the latter
type of death; but praise God, this is not a final death; it is only a
short cessation of life until victory over death has been com-
pletely achieved.
What has made it possible for us to partake of glorious
victory? John 11:25.
Although Christ is the resurrection and the life, this fact alone
is not sufficient to ensure that you and I can live. You and I must -
appropriate that life to ourselves by believing in Him who can
raise us from the dead.
"Many are unwilling to accept of Christ until the whole mys-
tery of the plan of salvation shall be made plain to them. They
refuse the look of faith, although they see that thousands have
looked, and have felt the efficacy of looking, to the cross of
Christ. Many wander in the mazes of philosophy, in search of
reasons and evidence which they will never find, while they
reject the evidence which God has been pleased to give.... If
those who were bitten by the serpents had stopped to doubt and
question before they would consent to look, they would have
perished. It is our duty, first, to look; and the look of faith will
give us
life."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
p. 432.
THINK IT THROUGH
How can I show my belief in the resurrection and hope of
eternal life?
" 'If any man's work abide, . . . he shall receive a reward.'
Glorious will be the reward bestowed when the faithful workers
are gathered about the throne of God and the Lamb. When John
in his mortal state beheld the glory of God, he fell as one dead;
he was not able to endure the sight. But when mortal shall have
put on immortality, the ransomed ones are like Jesus, for they
see Him as He is. They stand before the throne, signifying that
they are accepted. All their sins are blotted out, all their trans-
gressions borne away. Now they can look upon the undimmed
glory from the throne of
God."—Testimonies,
vol. 5, p. 467.
FURTHER STUDY
Early Writings,
pp. 286-288.
95
LESSON 12 March 19-25
The Creator and
Reslautian
"And I saw a new heaven and a new
earth: for the first heaven and the first
earth were
-
passed away; and there
was no more sea" (Rev. 21:1).
Restoration is not necessary unless
something has deteriorated. What
needs to be restored in people? When
Lucifer seduced man into sin, he
caused him to lose face-to-face
communication with God. Man lost
his garden home, he lost everlasting
life, and he lost physical perfection of
body. Most of all, the spiritual likeness
to the Creator was lost. All these will
be restored again by God. Man will
again be able to communicate directly
with his Creator. He will enjoy the
magnificent beauty of Eden which was
his home originally. Everlasting life
will be available as he partakes of the
fruit of the tree of-life.-Physical
perfection will be his again—no
sickness, no pain, no suffering. And of
course he will again reflect spiritually
his Maker.
But the restoration goes beyond
merely attaining that which was lost
originally. The experience of sin, the
vindication of God's character after a
struggle of many thousands of years,
the presence of Jesus with His
nail-pierced hands—all are aspects of
history that will never be erased; they
ensure that sin can never raise its ugly
head again. In a sense, the restoration
raises man to a higher level than he
ever attained before. The entrance of
sin was a tragedy. But through God's
re-creative power new under-
standings of His character have
been brought to light. How great is our
Creator! We shall never be able to
comprehend fully, or exhaust our
understanding of the way He can turn
failure to success, tragedy to triumph,
death to eternal life.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
1.
Sojourn in Heaven
(Isa. 64:4)
2.
The First and Second Deaths
(Rev. 20:6)
3.
The Earth Purified
(Rev. 20:9, 11)
4.
A New Creation
(Rev. 21:1)
5.
Jesus With His People
(Rev. 21:2, 3)
6.
Eternal Perfection
(Rev. 21:4, 5)
The Creator and the Restoration
LESSON 12
❑
Sunday
March 19
Part 1
SOJOURN
IN HEAVEN
THINK IT THROUGH
FURTHER STUDY
98
How does Isaiah describe the wonders of heaven?
"Since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor
perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, 0 God, beside
thee, what he hath prepared for him that walteth for him" (isa.
64:4).
It is impossible for man fully to comprehend what God has in
store for him. However far he stretches his imagination, he will
always be tied to what he has seen. Since God is limitless, He
can produce a world of wonders that far exceed man's capacity
for visualization, and this is what we are assured will be the case
when God effects a restoration.
"The nearest we can come to a description of the reward that
awaits the overcomer is to say that it is a far more exceeding and
eternal weight of glory. It will be an eternity of bliss, a blessed
eternity, unfolding new glories throughout the ceaseless
ages."—Testimonies,
vol. 8, p. 131.
What will the saints be doing in heaven, and how long will It
take? Rev. 20:4.
At the second coming the wicked will be destroyed when the
righteous are raised. The earth will remain a scene of desolation
until the end of the thousand years.
Meanwhile the saints are in heaven and they have access to
the records which have determined who is worthy to be in the
kingdom and who is not. If there should be any question in
anyone's mind regarding the justice of the treatment meted out
to each person, the records are there for confirmation. In this
fair way God vindicates His judgments, and everyone will rec-
ognize the justice and mercy of God.
Why do you think there will be no such thing as boredom
in the new earth? What interests can you develop here that
you can continue then?
In the new earth the redeemed will build houses and inhabit
them, plant trees and enjoy their fruit. Since there is no limit to
the good that can be done and no end to the variety of occupa-
tions that can be indulged in, there can be no time when a
person will say, I am tired and bored.
How often in our experience, legitimate desires and ambi-
tions have been stifled because of lack of time? How many
projects and interests have we put aside because there was no
time or opportunity? In the heavenly land, with eternity spread
out before us, this will never again be a problem. For as long as
interest lasts, we may pursue our activities; and as long as
desire persists, there will be opportunities to fulfill them.
Testimonies,
vol. 8, pp. 130-132.
The Creator and the Restoration
LESSON 12
❑
Monday
March 20
Part 2
THE FIRST AND
SECOND DEATHS
What makes the first resurrection so important?
"Blessed and holy Is he that hath part in the first resurrec-
tion: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall
be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a
thousand years" (Rev. 20:6).
Those who rise in the first resurrection will have passed from
death to life. That is what makes the experience so important.
Now they can do the work of praising God and attributing to Him
all glory and power and the victory over sin. No one will need to
tell the other of the goodness of God, but everyone will be
anxious to testify to God's loving care and goodness. Rather
than being a consuming fire to them, God is a sun and shield. He
is now seen to be a Creator and re-Creator.
What is the meaning of the expression, "second death"?
The first death is the death that has passed on all men be-
cause all have sinned (Rom. 3:23). The second death is the final
annihilation of the wicked that takes place at the end of the
thousand years. After the first death there is hope of a resurrec-
tion. But after the second death there is no hope of life. Dean
Henry Alford comments, "As there is a second and higher life,
so there is a second and deeper death. And as after that there is
no more death, so after that death there is no more life."
Because the saints are delivered from the second death,
what past song of deliverance will they sing? Rev. 15:3.
The wicked who are raised after the first death are given only a
temporary restoration of life. The righteous who die in the first
death have only a temporary sleep. The wicked who are raised
temporarily continue their downward march toward eternal
death. The righteous continue to live in the presence of God.
The wicked are annihilated and cease to exist forever. The
righteous are glorified and have eternal life in God.
THINK IT THROUGH
Why Is the second death Just and merciful at the same time?
"As the priest, in removing the sins from the sactuary, con-
fessed them upon the head of the scapegoat, so Christ will place
all these sins upon Satan, the originator and instigator of sin....
Thus the great plan of redemption will reach its accomplish-
ment in the final eradication of sin and the deliverance of all who
have been willing to renounce evil."—The
Great Controversy,
pp. 485, 486.
FURTHER STUDY
Early Writings,
pp. 294, 295.
99
The Creator and the Restoration
LESSON 12
❑
Tuesday
March 21
Part 3
THE EARTH
PURIFIED
THINK IT THROUGH
FURTHER STUDY
100
Where will the wicked receive the final execution of judg-
ment?
"They went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed
the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire
came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them."
"And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from
whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was
found no place for them" (Rev. 20:9, 11).
What event of the past is a type of this future event? Gen.
7:23; 2 Peter 3:5-7.
Fire with its heat is a purifying agent. Through strong heat
iron can be cleared of its impurities. Boiling water destroys the
living matter within it. Thus the very elementary processes of
nature illustrate what God needs to do to purge the earth of all
its imperfections and sin. The way is now prepared for a new
earth where the former things are forgotten, and all things
reflect the perfection of their Creator.
"When the flood of waters was at its height upon the earth, it
had the appearance of a boundless lake of water. When God
finally purifies the earth, it will appear like a boundless lake of
fire. As God preserved the ark amid the commotions of the
Flood, because it contained eight righteous persons, He will
preserve the New Jerusalem, containing the faithful of all ages,
from righteous Abel down to the last saint which lived. Although
the whole earth, with the exception of that portion where the
city rests, will be wrapped in a sea of liquid fire, yet the city is
preserved as was the ark, by a miracle of Almighty power. It
stands unharmed amid the devouring elements."—Ellen G.
White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary, vol.
7, p. 986.
What expression used in Genesis 1:2 is also used to de-
scribe the earth during the 1000 years before it is purified?
Gen. 1:2; Jer. 4:23-26.
God is a God of order. When He began His creative acts as
recorded in Genesis He established form and order, system and
beauty, in that which was essentially chaotic. At the end of the
thousand years God will restore law and order, beauty and
usefulness, to that which has been marred and scarred by sin. In
the Edenic state and the condition of the earth during the
thousand years we see a contrast between what God desires
and what sin has succeeded in achieving.
As the saints in the Holy City witness the fires of purification
operate all around them, how do you think they feel?
The Great Controversy,
pp.
673, 674.
The Creator and the Restoration
LESSON 12
❑
Wednesday
March 22
Part 4
After God purifies the earth of all sin, what will He do?
A NEW CREATION
"I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven
and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more
sea" (Rev. 21:1).
"There was no more sea." This expression in the context of
the first heaven and the first earth having passed away suggests
that there will be none of the activities of the sea which made it a
dreadful phenomenon. For instance, the sea separates people
by many miles; it can dash a ship against the rocks or swallow
the ship with all its passengers and crew without a survivor. It
can be seen as an inexorable power as it pounds mercilessly
along the shore. There will be no such frightening phenomenon
in the earth made new. At the same time there is a sea of glass
before the throne (Rev. 4:6). Whatever there is good about a sea
will be there.
"John is probably emphasizing the fact that the new heavens
and earth will be created from the purified elements of the old,
and thus be new in quality, different. The new heavens and the
new earth are, then, a re-creation, a forming anew of existing
elements, and not a creation
ex nihilo."—S.D.A. Bible Commen-
tary, vol.
7, p. 889.
Some of the events of Creation Week will be repeated again.
The surface of the earth must be made into a suitable habitat for
living things. Plants and animals will be created. What a grand
opportunity the saints will have to witness Creation again!
How does Isaiah describe what happens when the new
earth is created? Isa. 65:17.
THINK IT THROUGH
What are aspects of life that you look forward to in the new
earth which will be different from what you experience now?
It will be a joy to be free from the shackles of sin, to see beauty
and cooperation in every element of nature. There will be cool-
ing springs of water, and luscious fruits to pluck from trees that
produce abundantly. The tree of life will invigorate every part of
the body. No more pain or weary striving; no frustrations or
disappointments. Somehow the whole being is raised to praise
the One who has provided such constant delight and ever grow-
ing experience.
FURTHER STUDY
Early Writings,
pp. 17-20.
101
The Creator and the Restoration
LESSON 12
❑
Thursday
March 23
Part 5
JESUS WITH
HIS PEOPLE
Every nation has a capital, a seat of government and author-
ity. What will be the capital of the earth made new?
"I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from
God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her hus-
band. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold,
the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them,
and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with
them, and be their God" (Rev. 21:2, 3).
God has always wanted to be with His people. In the Garden of
Eden there is a clear picture of communication between God
and Adam and Eve. Sin brought about a separation of man from
God, but God still sought to communicate with men, as He did
with Cain when he sinned. In the wilderness of Sinai God asked
for a tabernacle to be built so that He could be in the midst of His
people. In the earth made new that objective of closeness be-
tween Creator and created will be realized.
How is the Holy City further described? Rev. 21:4, 10-27;
22:1-6.
The symbol of the bride is very striking. Note how an impor-
tant feature of the bride is her dress (Rev. 19:8). Note that the
symbol of marriage is to express the close and indissoluble
union that is to exist between Christ and His people. Also the
church is referred to as the bride of Christ. (See 2 Cor. 11:2.)
THINK IT THROUGH
Why is closeness to people so important to God?
The mutual relationship between God and His people shows
the high regard God has for them, and the great condescension
of God that He, the Creator and Source of all being, will as-
sociate on a personal level with His created beings. God is not
so much possessive as communicative, which means that His
presence brings incalculable blessings, and is the spring of
eternal happiness.
"By His life and His death, Christ has achieved even more than
recovery from the ruin wrought through sin. It was Satan's
purpose to bring about an eternal separation between God and
man; but in Christ we become more closely united to God than if
we had never fallen. In taking our nature, the Saviour has bound
Himself to humanity by a tie that is never to be broken. Through
the eternal ages He is linked with us. 'God so loved the world,
that He gave His only-begotten Son.' John 3:16. He gave Him not
only to bear our sins, and to die as our sacrifice; He gave Him to
the fallen race."—The
Desire of Ages,
p. 25.
FURTHER STUDY
Education,
pp. 301-305.
102
The Creator and the Restoration
LESSON 12
❑
Friday
March 24
Part 6
What aspect of restoration makes the new earth state an
•
ETERNAL embodiment of eternal perfection?
PERFECTION
"God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there
shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither
shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed
away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all
things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are
true and faithful" (Rev. 21:4, 5).
It is noteworthy that before a perfect universe can be erected
the old has to be taken away. Any work of reform will involve
some tearing down. (See Jer. 1:10.) The authority given to
Jeremiah involved pulling down and uprooting as well as build-
ing and planting.
What is taken away is always worthless, sometimes positively
harmful. Whatever it is, it cannot be built into the new. Among
the things that will disappear with this old world will be the bitter
tears and sorrow expressed in crying. In particular there will be
no more death. The way is opened now for an existence that will
have no end, an existence that will always be joyful.
What kind of people will not be found in the earth made
new? Rev. 21:8; 22:15.
These verses show clearly how different the new earth will be
from conditions that exist in the world today. Can you see why
these people are not found in the kingdom?
What kind of people will be found in the earth made new?
Rev. 14:4, 5; 7:14.
THINK IT THROUGH
What is the basis for believing that what God promises He
will fulfill?
"Wherever we looked, everything upon which the eye rested
was beautiful and holy. And all the redeemed host, old and
young, great and small, cast their glittering crowns at the feet of
their Redeemer, and prostrated themselves in adoration before
Him, and worshiped Him that lived forever and ever."—Early
Writings,
p. 295.
Although the earth will have no reminder of sin, there will be
one evidence that forever will be with the redeemed.
"Jesus will present His hands with the marks of His crucifix-
ion. The marks of this cruelty He will ever bear. Every print of the
nails will tell the story of man's wonderful redemption and the
dear price by which it was purchased."—Early
Writings,
p. 179.
FURTHER STUDY
Education,
pp. 307-309.
103
e
g
iMr'llefri
igtgT 2nd
Sabbath School members who have not received a copy of the Adult Les-
sons for the second quarter of 1978 will be helped by the following outline in
studying the first two lessons. The title of the series is "The Path of Faith."
First Lesson
WE NEED HIM, Memory text, 1 John 1:4.
1. Healer (John 5:6)
2. "A Spring of Water" (John 4:14)
3. "The Light of the World" (John 8:12)
4. "The Bread of Life" (John 6:35)
5. "The Good Shepherd" (John 10:11)
6. "The Way" (John 14:6)
Second Lesson
WE ARE DRAWN BY HIM, Memory text, John 12:32.
1. Light for All (John 1:9)
2.
"Lamb of God" (John 1:29)
3.
"Come and See" (John 1:48)
4.
"Born of the Spirit" (John 3:8)
5.
"Given . . . of my Father" (John 6:65)
6.
No Orphans Here (John 14:18)
Lessons in 3raille
The regular Adult Sabbath School Lessons are available free each month in
Braille and 16
2
/
3
rpm records to blind and physically handicapped persons
who cannot read normal inkprint. This includes individuals who because of
arthritis, multiple sclerosis, paralysis, accidents, old age, and so forth,
cannot hold or focus on normal inkprint publications. Contact the Christian
Record Braille Foundation, Box 6097, Lincoln, Nebraska 68506.
After VBS is over
for the year, send a 3-month complimentary
subscription for OUR LITTLE FRIEND
or PRIMARY TREASURE.
NO
MI
Brought to you by Pacific Press
Here is
picture of
'fortune.
The widow's mite. It wasn't
much. Yet it was
everything. God isn't
preoccupied with the
amount we give but He is
concerned with what's
going on in our heart as we
give. The widow's love
made her gift a fortune!
God has chosen to
advance His work through
you and your gift. But not
by twisting your arm. He
knows that if you've really
given Him your heart, you'll
also give your dollars.
When you reach into your
purse or wallet to support
the Sabbath School offering
this week, reach into your
heart also. That's where
God is looking when
you give.
Head
Let God's love show through your giving,
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